You are providing care to a responsive person who has been injured and is bleeding out of a large wound in the leg. What should you do to control the bleeding?

Applying direct pressure with an absorbent pad until the bleeding stops is the most effective immediate action to control severe bleeding from a large wound. This method works by directly compressing the blood vessels and tissues to promote clotting, which is crucial in reducing blood loss. Direct pressure can be maintained with a clean absorbent pad or cloth over the wound, allowing for the formation of a clot while preventing additional blood from escaping the body.

When managing bleeding, it's vital to prioritize direct pressure over other actions like splinting or washing the wound. Although splinting can provide stabilization for fractures, it does not directly control bleeding from a wound. Washing a wound with water is typically a step taken for cleaning; however, it can aggravate the situation by potentially dislodging clots and increasing bleeding. Using antibiotic ointments or creams should be reserved for after the bleeding is controlled and the wound is properly cleaned and dressed, as applying them before addressing the bleeding can complicate the immediate care process.

Overall, applying direct pressure is a simple yet critical technique that offers the best chance of effectively controlling bleeding in emergency situations.