In the RICE first aid protocol, what does the C stand for?

• A. Compression
• B. Cold, ice on for 20 min, off for 20 min
• C. Cold and Circulation
• D. Clean wound

Answer: (B)

In RICE, the C stands for Compression. Applying gentle external pressure with an elastic bandage or compression wrap helps limit swelling by reducing fluid buildup and provides support to the injured tissues. When you wrap, do it from the area farther from the heart toward the body (distal to proximal) so fluid is encouraged away from the injury, but make sure it isn’t so tight that it cuts off circulation. Check for signs of poor circulation, like numbness, tingling, or color change; if any of these occur, loosen the wrap.

Note that Cold (ice) is a separate part of the sequence—ice for short intervals to reduce pain and swelling—while the options mentioning time on/off for icing or phrases about cleaning a wound don’t describe the compression component.