What is the primary use of a tourniquet in emergencies?

The primary use of a tourniquet in emergencies is to stop severe bleeding. When a person experiences a significant injury that leads to uncontrolled hemorrhaging, applying a tourniquet can help to occlude blood flow to the affected limb. This is crucial in life-threatening situations, as rapid and effective control of blood loss can significantly improve survival chances until professional medical help is available.

The design of a tourniquet allows for quick application, often just by twisting a rod or a similar mechanism to tighten it around the limb. It is specifically intended for use on extremities where direct pressure or traditional bandaging techniques might not be effective in controlling arterial bleeding.

In this context, the other options do not accurately reflect the primary function of a tourniquet. It is not primarily designed to bandage wounds, immobilize fractures, or provide warmth. Instead, its critical role lies in its ability to halt severe blood loss, underscoring its importance in emergency management.