Why should a tourniquet be placed 2-3 inches above the wound and not over a joint?

• A. To avoid restricting movement of a joint and to ensure blood flow can be stopped close to the wound.
• B. To apply more pressure on a joint.
• C. To reduce pain.
• D. Because it looks better.

Answer: (A)

The main idea is to stop bleeding effectively by compressing the artery feeding the injured area while keeping the limb as functional as possible. Placing the tourniquet 2-3 inches above the wound situates the device on firm tissue and allows pressure to be directed right at the bleeding vessel near the wound, which helps shut off blood flow quickly and as close to the injury as feasible. Avoiding placement over a joint matters because joints move, so a tourniquet over a joint can slip or shift, reducing its effectiveness and potentially causing additional discomfort or tissue injury. By keeping the tourniquet above the wound and away from joints, you preserve joint movement and maximize control of the bleeding.