When is a tourniquet indicated for external hemorrhage?

• A. When direct pressure controls the bleeding.
• B. Only for non-life-threatening bleeding.
• C. When direct pressure fails to control life-threatening bleeding or the bleeding is so severe that it cannot be controlled by direct pressure alone.
• D. When bleeding stops with direct pressure.

Answer: (C)

A tourniquet is indicated only when direct pressure cannot control a life-threatening external bleed or when the bleeding is so severe that direct pressure alone can’t stop it. Direct pressure is the first step for any external hemorrhage, but if the bleed continues and poses a serious threat, a tourniquet may be necessary to rapidly control blood loss. This approach balances the need to stop dangerous bleeding with the potential risks of tourniquet use, so it isn’t used for minor or non-life-threatening bleeds. If bleeding stops with direct pressure, no tourniquet is needed; if it does not, apply the tourniquet to the limb above the wound and seek urgent medical care.