What should you do if a person is bleeding heavily?

Applying direct pressure to the wound and elevating the area is the most effective immediate response to heavy bleeding. This method helps to control the flow of blood, reducing the risk of shock. By using direct pressure, you can help to clot the blood and minimize the loss. Elevation further assists by reducing blood flow to the area, which can also aid in controlling the bleeding.

The other options are not appropriate responses to heavy bleeding. Giving the person something to eat is not suitable, as they may need surgery or medical intervention that requires an empty stomach. Encouraging activity can exacerbate the situation by increasing heart rate and blood flow, which may worsen bleeding. Waiting for symptoms to improve without taking action can lead to severe consequences, including shock or even death, due to excessive blood loss. Therefore, applying direct pressure and elevating the area is the critical action to take in such an emergency.