Trauma Nurse Core Course (TNCC) Practice Exam 2025 - Free Practice Questions and Study Guide

The use of a tourniquet is specifically indicated in cases of life-threatening extremity hemorrhage that does not respond to direct pressure. This situation typically arises in trauma scenarios where severe bleeding poses an immediate risk to the patient’s life. Direct pressure may be effective for managing minor or moderate bleeding, but when that fails and the bleeding is profuse, the application of a tourniquet becomes necessary.

Tourniquets work by compressing the blood vessels to the extremity, effectively stopping blood flow to prevent further blood loss and allowing time for advanced medical interventions. It's crucial to apply the tourniquet correctly, ensuring it is placed a few inches above the bleeding site and not over any joints, to maximize its effectiveness.

In contrast, the other situations outlined are not appropriate for tourniquet use. For minor cuts and abrasions, direct pressure and basic wound care are sufficient. Wound cleaning procedures do not require the application of a tourniquet, as they typically do not involve significant bleeding. Additionally, elevated blood pressure management does not pertain to bleeding control and therefore does not warrant the use of a tourniquet.