What is an important initial step when managing a patient with severe bleeding?

Applying direct pressure to the wound is crucial in the management of severe bleeding, as it helps to promote clotting and minimize blood loss. When direct pressure is applied, it can compress the blood vessels and surrounding tissues, which aids in controlling the flow of blood from the injury site. This is an immediate action that can be taken at the scene before more advanced medical help arrives.

Other interventions, while important in the broader context of patient management, may either take longer to implement or be less effective in quickly stemming severe bleeding. For example, beginning CPR is reserved for cases where the patient has lost consciousness and is not breathing, which might not be the immediate concern for a patient who is actively bleeding but still conscious. Administering fluids and raising the patient's arm might also be considered parts of treatment for a patient in shock or needing stabilization, but they do not address the immediate need to control active bleeding. Therefore, applying direct pressure is the most effective and immediate step to manage severe bleeding.