What is a pressure point?

• A. A device used to apply pressure to a wound
• B. A place where the main artery or vein to the injured part lies near the skin and over the bone
• C. A technique for applying pressure
• D. A dressing for wounds

Answer: (B)

Pressure points are spots on the body where a major artery or vein lies close to the surface of the skin, often over bone. Pressing firmly on these sites can compress the vessel against the bone and slow or stop blood flow to a bleeding area. This helps in controlling arterial bleeding while you seek further help or apply other first aid measures. The other options describe a device, a general pressure technique, or a dressing, none of which define what a pressure point is. Classic examples include arteries like the radial at the wrist or the femoral in the groin, where pressure can reduce bleeding by limiting blood flow.