Which of the following is NOT a step to take immediately after a puncture injury?

To identify the correct answer, it's important to understand the standard procedures for managing a puncture injury. After such an injury occurs, immediate care is crucial in preventing infection and promoting healing.

Washing the area with soap and water is a critical step, as it helps to clean the wound of any dirt and bacteria that may have entered. Allowing the wound to bleed may also be recommended in some cases, as it can help to flush out any debris and bacteria. Additionally, the use of gloves is essential to prevent contamination and protect both the injured party and the caregiver.

Applying a bandage immediately, while a common step in injury management, typically should not be the very first action after a puncture. The wound needs to be properly cleaned and any excessive bleeding controlled before covering it with a bandage. This ensures that a bandage is applied to a clean surface and helps to maintain proper hygiene and healing conditions.

Thus, while bandaging is an important step in the overall care of a puncture wound, it is not the immediate action to take right after the injury occurs, making it the correct answer in this context.