What should be done if a puncture wound is bleeding?

When dealing with a bleeding puncture wound, the most appropriate action is to apply pressure and cover it. This method helps to control the bleeding by encouraging blood clot formation while simultaneously protecting the wound from further contamination and infection.

Applying pressure stops the blood flow and minimizes the risk of excessive bleeding, which can lead to complications. After effectively managing the bleeding, covering the wound with a sterile bandage reduces the likelihood of outside bacteria entering, thus promoting better healing.

Although the other option might suggest cleaning and applying antiseptic, this approach may not effectively manage the bleeding and could expose the wound to potential irritants or challenge the body’s natural healing processes. It's important to prioritize stopping the bleeding before proceeding with cleaning and antiseptic application in a later step once the initial crisis is managed.