Where should a deliberate tourniquet be applied?

A deliberate tourniquet should be applied directly to the skin, approximately 2-3 inches above the bleeding site. This placement is critical as it allows the tourniquet to effectively occlude the blood flow to the injured area, thus controlling severe hemorrhage.

When applied directly to the skin, the tourniquet can exert maximum pressure on the limb, ensuring that the blood vessels are compressed adequately. If placed over clothing or at a joint, its effectiveness could be compromised due to the resistance and cushioning provided by these layers. Furthermore, if a tourniquet is placed too high or too low, it may not properly control the bleeding, making precise placement essential in management of traumatic injuries.