When applying a deliberate tourniquet, where should it be placed in relation to the wound?

The correct choice involves placing the tourniquet 2 to 3 inches above the wound. This location is crucial because it allows the tourniquet to effectively restrict blood flow to the affected area, thereby controlling severe bleeding. Placing the tourniquet directly at the site of the wound could be ineffective, as it might not adequately compress the arterial blood vessels that are supplying the wound area.

By positioning it a couple of inches above the wound, there is a higher likelihood of occluding the blood flow, thereby enhancing the efficacy of the tourniquet in managing hemorrhage. This technique also minimizes the risk of additional injury to surrounding tissues that could be impacted if the tourniquet were to be applied directly over the joint or at the wound itself. Overall, this placement is critical in emergency situations to stabilize the patient before further medical help can be obtained.