What is the first step in controlling an open chest injury?

• A. Tourniquet to chest
• B. Remove clothing around the wound
• C. Direct pressure with a gloved hand
• D. Apply a tight bandage to chest

Answer: (C)

Controlling bleeding is the first priority in an open chest injury. Pressing directly on the wound with a clean, gloved hand helps to quickly slow or stop bleeding, which is crucial for stabilizing the patient and buying time for further care. Once bleeding is under control, you would cover the wound with a sterile dressing and, for chest injuries, use an occlusive dressing to limit air entering the chest cavity while still allowing air to escape if needed. Tourniquets are meant for limbs, removing clothing around the wound isn’t the immediate step, and a tight bandage on the chest can hinder breathing and won’t reliably control bleeding as the first action.