➡️ What is a Tourniquet?

A tourniquet is a tight band that is used to stop heavy bleeding in an arm or leg. It is usually applied above the injury to control the flow of blood to the affected area. Tourniquets are often used in emergency situations when other methods, like pressure, do not stop bleeding.

Severe bleeding that cannot be stopped by applying pressure.
Bleeding from an arm or leg that is life-threatening.
When other methods of bleeding control (like using gauze or a bandage) are not effective.

Find the bleeding site.
- Locate the area of bleeding. It’s usually in the arm or leg. If there’s a wound, look for any large or deep cuts.
Place the tourniquet above the injury.
- Put the tourniquet about 2-3 inches above the injury, but not directly over a joint (like the knee or elbow). The closer it is to the injury, the more effective it will be.
Tighten the tourniquet.
- Tighten the tourniquet as much as possible to stop the bleeding. This may be painful, but it is necessary to save the person’s life. The blood flow to the injury should be stopped.
Secure the tourniquet.
- Once the tourniquet is tight, secure it in place using the device's built-in mechanism or a knot.
Write down the time of application.
- It’s important to note the time the tourniquet was applied, as it can only stay on for a limited amount of time (usually no more than 1-2 hours). Medical professionals will need this information to avoid damage to the tissue.
Seek medical help immediately.
- Call emergency services or get the person to the hospital as quickly as possible. The tourniquet is a temporary solution until proper medical treatment is provided.

Never remove the tourniquet once it’s applied. Only trained medical professionals should do that.
Monitor the person’s condition closely, and if they are unconscious or not breathing, start CPR.
Tourniquets should be used only in severe cases of bleeding. If the bleeding can be stopped by pressure or a bandage, those methods should be tried first.