What should be done when a battle dressing becomes saturated?

When a battle dressing becomes saturated, it is essential to replace it immediately to stop blood flow. A saturated dressing indicates that it has absorbed as much blood and bodily fluids as it can, thereby losing its effectiveness in controlling hemorrhage. Continuing to use a saturated dressing can lead to several complications, including a higher risk of infection and ineffective pressure on the wound.

By replacing the dressing, you can apply fresh, clean material that can more effectively control bleeding and provide a better barrier against contamination. It is critical in emergency situations to ensure that the dressing remains effective in its primary purpose: to prevent blood loss and facilitate healing.

In contrast, leaving the saturated dressing in place or waiting for it to dry may exacerbate the situation by allowing further blood loss or risk of infection. Applying additional dressing over a saturated one might not address the underlying issue of inadequate control over the wound; instead, it can hinder proper assessment and treatment. Thus, immediate replacement is the best action in this scenario.