During which phase should direct pressure be applied to a hemorrhaging wound?

The application of direct pressure to a hemorrhaging wound is essential for controlling bleeding and is emphasized during the Care Under Fire phase. In this phase, immediate environments may be hostile, and personnel are encouraged to apply direct pressure to severe wounds as quickly as possible to stabilize the casualty while minimizing exposure to further harm. This critical intervention can prevent significant blood loss even before evacuation or further medical care is rendered.

Other phases focus on different priorities: Tactical Evacuation Care typically pertains to moving the patient safely, Tactical Field Care allows for more comprehensive treatment after the immediate threats in the Care Under Fire phase have been mitigated, and Post Evacuation Care involves follow-up treatment and stabilization after the patient has been evacuated from the combat zone. Thus, direct pressure as an initial step in controlling hemorrhage is vital during the Care Under Fire phase when immediate action can be taken to preserve life.