A tourniquet is a medical device used to temporarily constrict blood flow to a limb, typically an arm or leg, to control bleeding. It is commonly used in emergency situations to prevent excessive blood loss.

Tourniquets are used in situations where there is severe bleeding that cannot be controlled by other means, such as direct pressure or wound dressing. Common situations include traumatic injuries and accidents.

A tourniquet works by applying pressure to the blood vessels, typically an artery, to stop the flow of blood to a specific area. This reduces the risk of exsanguination bleeding to death.

Yes, there are various types, including windlass tourniquets, elastic tourniquets, and improvised tourniquets. Each serves a specific purpose.

Use a tourniquet as a last resort when severe bleeding can't be controlled by other means, and there's an immediate risk to the person's life.