A patient at the clinic suddenly sustains a deep laceration to the forearm after accidentally breaking a glass window. You notice the wound is bleeding profusely. What is the initial step you should take to control the bleeding?
Elevate the limb above the level of the heart.
Check for sensation and temperature below the site of the injury to assess for circulation impairment.
Immediately apply a tourniquet above the laceration.
Apply direct pressure over the wound with a clean cloth or sterile dressing.