What is a pressure point?

A pressure point refers to a specific location on the body where an artery is situated close to the skin's surface and lies over a bony structure. This anatomical feature is significant because applying pressure at these points can help control bleeding by occluding an artery, thus reducing blood flow to an injured area. Knowledge of pressure points is commonly utilized in first aid and emergency situations to manage hemorrhage effectively.

When dealing with trauma where blood loss occurs, identifying and applying pressure at these sites can be a crucial part of the immediate care provided until more advanced medical assistance is available. Each pressure point corresponds to a major artery, allowing responders to strategically halt blood flow by exerting pressure directly at the site.

On the other hand, while techniques for CPR and treatments for hypothermia are essential components of emergency care, they do not specifically define what a pressure point is. A pressure point is not merely a technique or a method but rather a physical location on the human body that serves a specific purpose in controlling bleeding.