What is Tourniquet?
A '''tourniquet''' is a tightly-compressed [[bandage]] used to stop [[bleeding]]. A tourniquet does this by stopping the flow of [[blood]] through a large [[artery]] in a [[limb]] by putting it tight and hard against the skin to compress the [[blood vessel]]. Normally when a tourniquet is put on, it goes above the joint of the affected limb. It can be made from [[clothing]] or any tightly-compressible material in the case of an [[emergency]]. There are ready-made, tightly packaged tourniquets which can be carried in a bag or first-aid box. These professional tourniquets are useful for people who treat emergencies often because they are faster to use and are probably [[sterile]]. If a rag or piece of clothing is used then the cleanest one is usually found. There are many different types of tourniquet. [[File:Emergency bandage application uk.webm|thumb|Application of The Emergency Bandage]] ==Use== In patients with major limb damage a tourniquet is used if direct pressure has failed to control life-threatening [[bleeding]]. The tourniquet goes on a limb as close to the joint (the knee or elbow) as possible, above the [[wound]] and the joint if possible. It is not safe to use one on the neck or around the body as this could stop the [[breathing]] or damage the [[Organ system|organs]]. Once on they should not be covered or hidden by anything like clothing. Sometimes the person using it also writes one or two letters or some symbol on a treated persons forehead, in some settings and countries, to tell everyone that a tourniquet is applied to this person. They should not be removed except by a medical professional once on. This can damage (a type called reperfusion damage) the limb and may cause [[ischaemia]]. Having one on for too long or doing it for no reason can also cause damage, but sometimes it is the best option and has to be kept on. == Forms/Alternatives== [[File:Samway's Tourniquet clips. Wellcome M0010705.jpg|thumb|Tourniquet on above the knee or arm. There is a part for easy tightening]] Altern