What should you do if there is no active bleeding on a wound?

The appropriate action when there is no active bleeding on a wound is to leave the bandage on and monitor the wound. This approach helps protect the wound from dirt and bacteria, facilitating the healing process while minimizing the risk of infection.

Leaving the bandage in place allows for a stable environment that supports healing, as removing it prematurely could expose the wound to contaminants. Monitoring the wound is crucial, as it allows you to observe for any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge. If any concerning signs develop, further action can be taken promptly.

Applying a tourniquet is unnecessary and may cause more harm if there is no bleeding, as tourniquets are intended for severe bleeding that cannot be controlled by other means. Similarly, applying more pressure would not be appropriate without active bleeding, as it does not address the need for ongoing assessment or care of the wound. Checking for infection after 4-6 hours is important, but it's critical to also manage the wound according to best practices rather than introducing unnecessary changes to the bandage.