Tourniquets are tight bands used to completely stop the blood flow to a wound. To control bleeding after an injury to a limb, tourniquets should ideally only be used by first responders trained in emergency first aid. Knowing when (and when not) to use a tourniquet to control bleeding can be difficult to ascertain.
Even when used properly, complications from tourniquet can lead to severe tissue damage. However, in the case of severe bleeding and life-or-death emergencies, properly using a tourniquet is an effective way to stop bleeding and keep an injured person stable until they can receive proper medical attention.1
Emergency scenarios that could require a civilian to use a tourniquet include car accidents, gunshot wounds, deep cuts, or a crushed limb related to a work injury.
Most people will never find themselves in a situation requiring the use of a commercial tourniquet. Still, if you ever find yourself in one of these situations, knowing how to properly use a tourniquet could potentially save someone's life.
When to Use