Question 14 MODU03 - Ballast Control Operator

The Correct Answer is C **Explanation for Option C (Correct Answer):** Option C outlines the essential and standard sequence for providing first aid to small cuts and open wounds: 1. **Stop the bleeding:** This is the immediate priority to prevent excessive blood loss. This is typically done by applying direct pressure to the wound. 2. **Clean:** Once the bleeding is controlled, the wound must be thoroughly cleaned (usually with mild soap and water or an antiseptic wipe) to remove dirt, debris, and bacteria, which prevents infection. 3. **Medicate:** Applying an antiseptic ointment (such as Neosporin) helps protect against infection and keeps the wound moist. 4. **Cover the wound:** Covering the wound with a sterile bandage or dressing protects it from contamination and aids in healing. **Explanation of Incorrect Options:** * **A) Apply an ice pack to the wound and cover it when the bleeding stops:** While ice can help with swelling and pain (especially for a bruise), applying it directly to an open, bleeding cut is not the primary immediate step. The essential steps of cleaning and medicating (preventing infection) are omitted. * **B) Lay the patient down and cover the wound when the bleeding stops:** Laying the patient down is relevant for shock or severe injury, but it is unnecessary for a small cut. Crucially, like Option A, this option entirely skips the vital steps of cleaning and medicating the wound, leading directly to covering a potentially contaminated wound. * **D) Apply a hot towel to purge the wound, then medicate and cover it:** Applying heat (a hot towel) is generally counterproductive for acute bleeding wounds as it can increase blood flow (vasodilation) and potentially worsen bleeding. Furthermore, "purging" is not standard wound care terminology, and cleaning should be done with water/antiseptic, not extreme heat.