For an accident injury scenario, in what order would the nurse perform the following interventions: Control external bleeding; Elevate the injured; Apply ice packs; Monitor for temperature elevation?

• A. 1-2-3-4
• B. 2-1-3-4
• C. 1-3-2-4
• D. 1-2-4-3

Answer: (A)

In first aid, stopping external bleeding takes priority because ongoing blood loss can quickly lead to shock. The first action is to apply direct pressure to the wound with a clean cloth or dressing, holding it firm until the bleeding slows or stops. Once the bleeding is controlled, elevating the injured part helps reduce blood flow to the area and limits swelling, provided there isn’t a fracture or other injury that makes elevation unsafe.

After bleeding is under control and the limb is elevated, applying ice packs helps minimize swelling and numb pain by causing blood vessels to constrict. Keep the ice wrapped in a cloth and limit each application to about 15 to 20 minutes at a time to protect the skin.

Monitoring for temperature elevation comes next as part of ongoing assessment. A fever can signal infection or other complications, so tracking temperature after the initial threat is managed is important, but it does not address the immediate risk of blood loss.