What is the primary mechanism of a tourniquet in hemorrhage control?

What is the primary mechanism of a tourniquet in hemorrhage control?

• A. Cuts off arterial blood flow
• B. Blocks venous return only
• C. Filters blood
• D. Cools tissue

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that a tourniquet stops the blood from reaching the injured area by squeezing the artery that feeds the limb. When tightened properly, it occludes arterial inflow, which is what dramatically reduces or stops the hemorrhage. Venous return is also restricted, but if arterial flow continues, bleeding will persist. The other options don’t describe how a tourniquet works: it doesn’t filter blood, and its purpose isn’t to cool tissue.

The main idea is that a tourniquet stops the blood from reaching the injured area by squeezing the artery that feeds the limb. When tightened properly, it occludes arterial inflow, which is what dramatically reduces or stops the hemorrhage. Venous return is also restricted, but if arterial flow continues, bleeding will persist. The other options don’t describe how a tourniquet works: it doesn’t filter blood, and its purpose isn’t to cool tissue.