What is a tourniquet used for?

A tourniquet is used specifically as a tool for stopping bleeding, particularly in situations where there is severe bleeding from a limb that cannot be controlled by other means. It is designed to be applied tightly around an extremity to occlude blood flow and prevent excessive blood loss, making it a critical intervention in emergency medical situations.

The application of a tourniquet is often a last resort, typically utilized when direct pressure and other methods to control bleeding are ineffective or in severe trauma situations. Understanding this aspect of a tourniquet is essential, as improper use or unnecessary application can lead to complications such as tissue damage due to prolonged lack of blood supply.

In contrast, the other choices do not accurately define the purpose of a tourniquet. While devices to increase blood flow are aimed at promoting circulation, a tourniquet does the opposite by constricting blood flow. Monitoring vital signs requires different tools and techniques entirely, and a compressed dressing serves a distinct purpose of protecting wounds and absorbing blood, rather than directly stopping severe bleeding through occlusion.