A 32 year old female is assaulted and has a laceration in the pubic region with active bleeding. What should you do?

Applying a trauma dressing in this scenario is crucial because it is specifically designed to manage significant bleeding from wounds. Trauma dressings are larger and more absorbent than standard bandages, allowing them to control bleeding effectively in areas where there may be considerable blood loss. Given the nature of the injury—a laceration in the pubic region with active bleeding—it's important to provide adequate coverage and pressure to help stem the flow of blood.

While applying a pressure dressing is generally a good practice for minor bleeds, in cases where there is active and potentially life-threatening bleeding, a trauma dressing is more appropriate as it can better manage the situation. The technique of raising the legs, although sometimes used to improve venous return or blood flow, is not a direct intervention for addressing bleeding and could potentially worsen the situation if there is significant abdominal trauma involved. Additionally, administering intravenous fluids may be necessary later on to address hypovolemia or shock, but immediate control of the bleeding takes precedence over fluid administration in this acute setting.