When should a tourniquet be used in field first aid?

• A. As the first action for any bleeding.
• B. On all limb injuries regardless of cause.
• C. Only after calling medical professionals.
• D. Only if trained and necessary.

Answer: (D)

Tourniquets are a last-resort tool for life-threatening bleeding from a limb and are not used for every bleed. The best approach is to try direct pressure first to control the bleeding; a tourniquet is only appropriate when you are trained and the bleeding is severe enough that it cannot be stopped with direct pressure alone. If you are trained and it’s necessary, apply the tourniquet proximal to the wound, tighten until the bleeding stops or is greatly reduced, and note the time of application. Then seek emergency medical help and monitor the person closely. Do not attempt to use a tourniquet if you haven’t been trained, and rely on direct pressure and professional care for less serious bleeding.