What is a critical action to take if you find a victim who has a severe cut?

Applying pressure directly to the wound is a critical action when dealing with a severe cut. This technique helps control bleeding, which is essential for preventing excessive blood loss and stabilizing the victim's condition. Direct pressure assists in clot formation and can significantly reduce the risk of shock or other complications that may arise from uncontrolled bleeding.

Keeping the victim still and calm can be beneficial in terms of overall comfort and reducing anxiety, but it does not address the immediate need to control bleeding. Starting CPR is only appropriate if the victim is unresponsive and not breathing, which does not apply in the case of a severe cut without further complications. Applying a tourniquet is indicated for severe bleeding in extremities when direct pressure doesn't work or if the bleeding is life-threatening, but it should not be the first option. The priority should always be to ensure direct and firm pressure is applied to the wound initially.