In an emergency situation, what should a nursing assistant do for a victim with a deep, bleeding wound?

The recommended action for a victim with a deep, bleeding wound involves elevating the affected area, covering the wound with a sterile dressing, and applying direct pressure to help control the bleeding. Elevating the injured arm or leg helps to reduce blood flow to the wound, which can mitigate the severity of bleeding. Covering the wound with a dressing serves a dual purpose: it protects the injury from further contamination and provides a surface upon which pressure can be applied.

Applying pressure directly to the wound encourages coagulation and can help the body stop the bleeding more effectively. This method is known as direct pressure and is a fundamental first aid practice recommended in emergency situations.

Using a tourniquet may be appropriate in certain severe cases of extremity bleeding, but it is generally reserved for situations where direct pressure has failed to control the bleeding and the injury is life-threatening. Waiting for Emergency Medical Services (EMS) to arrive or offering water to the victim could exacerbate the situation, as it does not address the immediate need to control the bleeding. Therefore, the comprehensive approach of applying pressure and providing wound care is the most effective and appropriate response for this scenario.