What is the primary goal of applying a tourniquet during patient care?

The primary goal of applying a tourniquet during patient care is to control severe bleeding. When significant blood loss occurs, especially in traumatic injuries, it is crucial to stop the bleeding quickly to prevent further blood loss which can lead to shock and potentially be life-threatening. A tourniquet effectively occludes blood flow to the affected limb, allowing for immediate management of severe hemorrhage. This is particularly important in pre-hospital settings where rapid interventions can be critical to sustaining life before reaching advanced medical care.

While stabilizing an injury, preventing infection, and alleviating pain are also important aspects of patient care, they are secondary to the urgent need to control hemorrhage in cases of traumatic injuries. Controlling bleeding is often the first priority, as it directly impacts the patient's survival chances.