When should a tourniquet be used for bleeding control?

• A. If direct pressure does not control bleeding
• B. Only for arterial bleeding
• C. After applying ice
• D. Before applying pressure

Answer: (A)

The important idea here is that a tourniquet is used when direct pressure fails to control significant bleeding in a limb. Direct pressure is the first thing you try because it stops most bleeds. If the bleeding continues or is life-threatening despite pressure, a tourniquet is the next step to quickly stop the blood flow. Tourniquets aren’t limited to arterial bleeding; they’re used for severe limb bleeding from either arteries or veins when rapid control is needed. Ice doesn’t directly stop bleeding, and applying a tourniquet before attempting direct pressure goes against the usual sequence of care. So, a tourniquet is used when direct pressure does not control the bleeding.