What is the role of a tourniquet in trauma care?

The role of a tourniquet in trauma care is specifically designed to control severe extremity bleeding. When applied correctly, a tourniquet creates a tight constriction around a limb, effectively stopping blood flow to the area where a significant arterial injury has occurred. This is vital in situations where direct pressure or other methods of hemostatic control are ineffective, especially in cases with life-threatening hemorrhage.

Using a tourniquet can be a crucial intervention in a pre-hospital setting or during emergencies, allowing medical personnel to manage bleeding quickly and improve the chances of survival until definitive surgical care is administered. The effectiveness of the tourniquet hinges on proper application and timely use.

Other options, such as preventing infection, assisting with airway management, or stabilizing fractured limbs, do not accurately reflect the primary purpose of a tourniquet, which focuses solely on bleeding control in extremities.