What is the purpose of a tourniquet?

The purpose of a tourniquet is to control bleeding, which makes it a critical tool in emergency medical situations. When severe bleeding occurs, applying a tourniquet effectively constricts blood flow to the affected area, thus minimizing blood loss and helping to prevent shock. This method is particularly vital in cases of traumatic injuries where quick action is essential for saving a person's life.

Tourniquets are designed to be applied above the injury site, and they work by creating pressure that compresses the blood vessels. This can be especially important in limb injuries where arterial bleeding needs to be stopped swiftly.

Other options, while they may pertain to different aspects of first aid or emergency care, do not define the primary function of a tourniquet. Stabilizing broken bones and immobilizing joints are typically addressed with splints rather than tourniquets, and providing warmth pertains to hypothermia prevention and treatment, not bleeding control.