What is a tourniquet used for in emergency care?

In emergency care, a tourniquet is specifically designed to control severe bleeding from an extremity due to trauma. When direct pressure is insufficient to stop the bleeding, applying a tourniquet can effectively compress blood vessels, preventing further blood loss and potentially preserving life. This method is particularly crucial in cases of traumatic injuries where arteries may be compromised, leading to rapid and life-threatening blood loss.

Using a tourniquet involves placing it above the injury site, ensuring that it is tight enough to occlude arterial blood flow. This action can be a vital intervention in pre-hospital settings before the individual can receive definitive medical care. The application should be carefully documented, including the time it was applied, as prolonged use can lead to complications, such as tissue damage.

In contrast, the other choices do not align with the primary function of a tourniquet in emergency medical scenarios, as they focus on different aspects of patient stabilization and assessment.