To control hemorrhage effectively, you should:

Applying pressure and elevating the injury above heart level is the most effective method for controlling hemorrhage. This approach serves a dual purpose: the direct application of pressure helps to slow or stop the bleeding by compressing the blood vessels and allowing clotting to occur, while elevating the injured area reduces blood flow to the site of the injury due to gravity, which further minimizes bleeding.

Additionally, this technique is well-established in first-aid protocols and has been demonstrated to support patient outcomes in emergency situations. It is critical in rapidly controlling bleeding before professional medical help intervenes.

Other methods, such as applying ice and elevation, may help with swelling but are less effective in directly stopping bleeding. Similarly, applying heat and pressure is not recommended for hemorrhage control, as heat can increase blood flow and may exacerbate the bleeding. Ignoring the situation until help arrives can lead to serious complications, both from blood loss and from delayed intervention. Therefore, the combination of pressure and elevation is the best practice for managing hemorrhage.