Where should a tourniquet be applied to control bleeding?

Applying a tourniquet is a critical step in controlling severe bleeding from a limb, and the specified location for placement is essential for its effectiveness. The correct placement of a tourniquet is two to four inches above the wound, but not over a joint. This distance allows the tourniquet to occlude blood flow effectively by compressing the artery supplying that part of the limb without being obstructed by the movement of the joint.

Placing the tourniquet too close to the wound, particularly directly on it or over a joint, can hinder its ability to effectively stop the bleeding. For instance, if the tourniquet is placed at the site of the wound, it may not sufficiently compress the blood vessels. Similarly, touring over a joint can result in inadequate pressure being applied, as joints have more laxity and movement compared to the solid tissue above the joint. Additionally, applying a tourniquet on the torso is inappropriate since these are designed specifically for limb injuries and would not be effective on the torso due to the body's anatomical structure and the blood flow patterns in that region.

Thus, applying the tourniquet in the correct position, as stated, maximizes its potential to control life-threatening bleeding effectively.