What is the proper way for a direct care worker to control bleeding?

The proper way for a direct care worker to control bleeding is to hold a towel or clean cloth against the wound and press down hard. This action applies direct pressure, which is essential for controlling hemorrhaging. By pressing on the wound, you help to encourage clot formation and can significantly reduce the flow of blood. This method is effective in managing bleeding and is recognized as a primary step in first aid for wound care.

Applying ice directly to the wound may help with swelling but does not effectively control bleeding. Elevating the wound above heart level can also be part of first aid practices but is usually done alongside applying pressure, rather than as a standalone action. Pouring antiseptic on the wound is important for cleaning it after bleeding has been controlled, but it is not a method for stopping the bleeding itself. Therefore, applying direct pressure is the most critical and immediate response when dealing with an actively bleeding wound.