When should a paramedic apply a tourniquet during patient care?

A tourniquet should be applied during patient care when there is severe hemorrhage that cannot be controlled by direct pressure. This is a critical intervention used to control significant bleeding, particularly from a limb where traditional methods, such as applying direct pressure, have proven ineffective.

In situations of severe hemorrhage, rapid action is necessary to prevent excessive blood loss, which can lead to shock or even death. A tourniquet works by compressing the blood vessels and stopping blood flow beyond the point of application. This technique is especially relevant in trauma scenarios where severe injuries can result in life-threatening bleeding.

While minor abrasions and superficial lacerations may bleed, they typically do not require the use of a tourniquet because they can usually be managed with simple first aid measures like cleansing and applying direct pressure. Additionally, applying a tourniquet before starting CPR is not advisable unless there is a clear indication of life-threatening bleeding, as the priority in such cases should be to initiate CPR if needed, rather than focus on controlling bleeding that might not critically impair immediate life support.