For a partially amputated extremity with heavy bleeding, what is the recommended management?

• A. Carefully pack sterile dressings into the wound and fully splint the extremity.
• B. Apply a tourniquet proximal to the injury and tighten it until the bleeding stops.
• C. Apply bulky compression dressings to the wound and splint the extremity.
• D. Control the bleeding, manipulate the arm to improve circulation, and apply a splint.

Answer: (C)

When dealing with a partially amputated extremity that is bleeding heavily, the priority is rapid hemorrhage control while keeping the limb stable. Applying bulky compression dressings provides immediate, even pressure over the wound and any exposed tissue, helping tamponade the bleeding and reduce ongoing blood loss. The padding and wrapped dressing create a stable, compressive environment that can be maintained during transport without wildly distorting the tissue.

After control of the bleeding is approached with these dressings, immobilize the limb with a splint. Splinting minimizes movement, protects the remaining tissues, and further reduces the risk of additional injury or bleeding from motion.

The other approaches are less favorable in this scenario. Simply packing the wound and fully splinting can fail to provide the sustained, even compression needed to stop heavy bleeding. A tourniquet is reserved for situations where direct pressure with dressings cannot control life-threatening hemorrhage, and manipulating the limb to improve circulation can worsen bleeding and cause more tissue damage.