What type of bleeding control is recommended in the Care Under Fire phase?

In the Care Under Fire phase, the priority is to control bleeding while also ensuring the safety of the individual providing care. The recommended practice involves applying direct pressure to control life-threatening bleeding when it is safe to do so. However, the use of a tourniquet is also a critical option, especially when direct pressure cannot effectively control the bleeding or when the situation is more severe.

This approach emphasizes a balance between immediate life-saving measures and the need for a safe environment for both the casualty and the rescuer. During this phase, it is vital to act quickly and decisively while remaining mindful of potential threats. The option involving direct pressure or a tourniquet aligns with these principles, allowing for flexibility based on the circumstances.

The other options do not adequately consider the safety aspect. Applying a tourniquet at all times or using hemostatic agents without regard to safety could expose both the casualty and the rescuer to further danger. Elevating the injury above the heart is not typically practical under the rigors of combat where movements may be constrained by conditions, and immediate control of massive bleeding takes precedence. Therefore, the focus on direct pressure, when safe, or the use of a tourniquet provides the most effective and sensible approach to managing bleeding