What should you do if a victim has severe bleeding that cannot be stopped with direct pressure?

When a victim has severe bleeding that cannot be controlled with direct pressure, packing the wound can be a critical step. This technique involves inserting gauze or a clean cloth directly into the wound to help control the bleeding by applying pressure to the source of the hemorrhage. It is especially useful for wounds that are deep or larger, where direct pressure alone may not be sufficient.

In cases where severe bleeding occurs, and there are appropriate supplies available, packing the wound creates additional support for hemostasis. This method not only applies pressure to the blood vessels but also can promote clot formation within the wound itself. If possible, after packing the wound, applying a bandage over it can help maintain pressure and prevent additional bleeding.

The other responses might not effectively address the situation. Applying a tourniquet should be considered especially when the bleeding cannot be controlled by other means, but it should not be the only step taken without first attempting other methods if supplies are available. Leaving the wound open would allow further blood loss and increase the risk of infection, and simply bandaging it tightly without proper packing might not adequately control the hemorrhage in severe cases.