When is a tourniquet indicated for limb bleeding?

• A. For all limb wounds
• B. Only after calling for help
• C. If bleeding cannot be controlled with direct pressure
• D. To replace direct pressure always

Answer: (C)

The main idea here is that a tourniquet is a last-resort measure for limb bleeding, used only when direct pressure cannot control the hemorrhage. Direct pressure is always attempted first because it’s the simplest, fastest way to stop bleeding and minimize tissue damage. If the bleeding is heavy and continues after firm direct pressure, or if you need to rapidly control life‑threatening bleeding to save the patient’s life, that’s when a tourniquet becomes indicated.

In practice, you apply direct pressure to the wound first, assess whether bleeding stops, and only escalate to a tourniquet if that bleeding cannot be controlled. Tourniquets are not for all limb wounds or for replacing direct pressure in every case; they’re reserved for severe, non‑controlled bleeding. They’re also not a substitute for urgent medical care—the goal is to stabilize bleeding while arranging transport.