Where should a tourniquet be placed relative to the wound?

• A. 2-3 inches above wound, not over joint
• B. Directly over the wound
• C. Below the wound
• D. Over a joint

Answer: (A)

A tourniquet should be applied proximal to the bleeding site so it can compress the arteries before the wound. The best placement is about 2–3 inches above the wound and away from any joint. This location provides enough soft tissue to generate effective arterial occlusion and reduces the risk that movement at a joint will loosen or misdirect the pressure. Placing it directly over the wound wouldn't reliably stop the bleeding and can damage tissue at the wound; placing it below the wound would not stop blood flow to the injured area. If space is tight near a joint, put the tourniquet as proximal as possible while staying clear of the joint itself.