What should be the first priority in treating a casualty with a severe bleeding injury?

In cases of severe bleeding, the immediate priority is to control the hemorrhage to prevent life-threatening consequences. Applying a tourniquet is a critical intervention because it effectively occludes blood flow to the extremities, allowing you to manage the bleeding and stabilize the casualty. This action directly addresses the most pressing issue—the loss of blood which can lead to shock and potential death if not stopped promptly.

While assessing vital signs, administering IV fluids, and transporting the casualty are important aspects of overall care, they should not take precedence over controlling severe bleeding. If severe bleeding is not controlled first, the casualty may quickly deteriorate, making subsequent interventions less effective or even futile. Prioritizing the application of a tourniquet aligns with the principles of tactical combat casualty care, which emphasizes stopping life-threatening bleeding as the first step in treatment.