What is the best way to control severe bleeding?

Applying direct pressure and elevating the injured limb is the most effective method to control severe bleeding. When direct pressure is applied to a bleeding wound, it can help to compress the blood vessels and promote clotting at the site of the injury. This is crucial in preventing excessive blood loss, which can lead to shock and other severe complications. Elevating the injured limb above the level of the heart can also assist in reducing blood flow to the area, thus further helping to minimize bleeding.

While using ice may reduce swelling, it does not address the immediate need to control severe bleeding. This option does not provide the necessary direct hemostatic action required in cases of significant hemorrhage. Providing the patient with fluids could be appropriate in certain trauma scenarios, especially if they are showing signs of shock, but it does not directly control the bleeding at the wound site. Wrapping the wound in a dry cloth might help prevent contamination, but without applying direct pressure, it is less effective in stopping the bleeding itself. Therefore, focusing on direct pressure and limb elevation is essential to manage severe hemorrhaging effectively.