Which method is recommended for controlling life-threatening bleeding in children under 2 years of age?

Applying direct pressure is recommended for controlling life-threatening bleeding in children under 2 years of age because it is the most effective and immediate way to manage external bleeding. Direct pressure helps to compress the blood vessels, which can significantly reduce blood flow to the area and promote clotting. This method is simple to perform and can often stop the bleeding without the need for more invasive techniques.

Using a tourniquet is generally not advised for young children, as it can potentially cause more harm than good due to their smaller anatomy and higher risk of tissue damage. Bleeding control kits may include direct pressure methods or other tools but are not always immediately available or necessary in all situations. Elevating the injury is not typically effective in significantly controlling severe bleeding and may not be advised, particularly if further movement could exacerbate the injury. Thus, direct pressure remains the go-to method for effectively managing serious bleeding in very young patients.