What is the main purpose of using a tourniquet in emergency situations?

The main purpose of using a tourniquet in emergency situations is to control severe bleeding. When a tourniquet is applied, it compresses the blood vessels in a limb to restrict blood flow to the wound, thereby significantly reducing or stopping the loss of blood. This is especially critical in situations where there is a life-threatening hemorrhage that could lead to shock or death if not addressed promptly.

In the context of traumatic injuries, especially those involving severe limb damage or amputation, rapid intervention is crucial. By effectively controlling the bleeding with a tourniquet, emergency responders can stabilize the patient's condition until further medical treatment is available. This intervention can be life-saving in cases of traumatic injuries where blood loss is substantial.

Other options, while relevant in a broader context of patient care, do not align with the primary goal of applying a tourniquet. For instance, preventing infection is more closely associated with wound care and hygiene, stabilizing fractures refers to immobilizing the bone and joint structures rather than managing blood flow, and increasing blood flow would be the opposite of using a tourniquet, which aims to minimize circulation to the affected area to control bleeding.