Where should the replacement tourniquet be placed relative to the original site?

Where should the replacement tourniquet be placed relative to the original site?

• A. Directly over the original site
• B. On the same site moved distally
• C. 2-3 inches above site
• D. 6 inches above the original site

Answer: (C)

When replacing a tourniquet, you want a new device applied proximal to the original one—about 2–3 inches (5–7 cm) closer to the torso. This positioning keeps arterial flow to the entire distal limb compressed and avoids placing the second tourniquet over the wound or directly on top of the first, which could reduce effectiveness or cause tissue injury. A distance of 6 inches is farther than standard and isn’t necessary; placing the new tourniquet distally would not secure the bleeding site as reliably. In short, move the replacement tourniquet just above the original site to maintain continuous limb occlusion.

When replacing a tourniquet, you want a new device applied proximal to the original one—about 2–3 inches (5–7 cm) closer to the torso. This positioning keeps arterial flow to the entire distal limb compressed and avoids placing the second tourniquet over the wound or directly on top of the first, which could reduce effectiveness or cause tissue injury. A distance of 6 inches is farther than standard and isn’t necessary; placing the new tourniquet distally would not secure the bleeding site as reliably. In short, move the replacement tourniquet just above the original site to maintain continuous limb occlusion.