What should you do if blood seeps through a dressing on a bleeding wound?

When blood seeps through a dressing on a bleeding wound, the best course of action is to add more dressing on top. This method allows for continued pressure on the wound, which is crucial in controlling the bleeding. Adding more material helps to absorb any excess blood and maintains a sterile barrier, reducing the risk of infection.

Changing the dressing immediately might disrupt the clotting process, cause further bleeding, or expose the wound to contaminants. Removing the old dressing can also reverse any progress that has been made in clotting. Applying ice to the wound has its uses, such as reducing swelling or numbing pain, but it does not directly address the issue of actively bleeding. Therefore, adding more dressing on top is the best practice to manage the situation effectively while allowing for the existing dressing's contact with the wound.