What is the primary purpose of a tourniquet?

The primary purpose of a tourniquet is to stop excessive bleeding. When applied correctly, a tourniquet creates a tight constriction around a limb, which effectively blocks blood flow to the area beyond the constriction. This is particularly critical in situations where a person may be experiencing life-threatening hemorrhage that cannot be controlled by direct pressure alone. The prompt application of a tourniquet can significantly improve the chances of survival and reduce the risk of severe blood loss before professional medical assistance can be obtained.

While preventing infection, applying pressure to a wound, and protecting the area from dirt are all important aspects of wound care, they do not capture the main function of a tourniquet. The specific focus of a tourniquet is on controlling blood loss, especially in traumatic injuries.