Final answer:
To initially control bleeding from soft-tissue injuries, direct pressure should be applied. This is the primary step in stopping the bleeding, which is then followed by the body's natural platelet plug formation to continue the clotting process.
Step-by-step explanation:
Bleeding from soft-tissue injuries should initially be controlled with direct pressure. This is the fastest and most effective initial response to stop the bleeding before professional medical help can be administered.
During the wound-healing response, the body first forms a blood clot to prevent further bleeding. Following this, platelet plug formation occurs, where platelets are activated by chemicals released from the injury site and by contact with underlying collagen, becoming spiked and sticking to each other and the wound site, which furthers the clotting process. The application of cold packs can help reduce swelling after the bleeding has been controlled, but initial bleeding control must come from applying direct pressure.