When applying pressure to stop bleeding, how long should you hold the gauze pads in place initially?

When applying pressure to stop bleeding, it is important to hold the gauze pads in place for a sufficient duration to allow the blood to clot effectively. Holding the gauze pads in place for about 1 minute is generally recommended as it ensures that adequate pressure is applied consistently over the wound without disrupting the clotting process that begins as soon as the pressure is applied. This time frame allows the body to initiate its natural healing mechanisms.

If pressure is not maintained for long enough, such as for a shorter duration, it may not give the wound sufficient time to begin clotting, potentially prolonging the bleeding and complicating the situation. On the other hand, holding pressure for an excessively long time may not be practical or necessary in many cases, especially if the bleeding does not show signs of slowing after that initial minute. Thus, one minute strikes a good balance between effectiveness and practicality in managing bleeding in emergency situations.