What is often used as a last resort to control excessive bleeding?

The use of a tourniquet is often considered a last resort in controlling excessive bleeding, particularly in cases where a limb injury involves significant blood loss and other methods have failed or are not practical. A tourniquet is a device applied to compress blood vessels and restrict blood flow to the injured area, thereby effectively minimizing blood loss.

Utilizing a tourniquet can be critical in life-threatening situations where immediate medical assistance is required. It is important to note that tourniquets should be applied correctly and only when necessary, as improper use can lead to complications, including tissue damage.

Other methods such as direct pressure, elevation, and ice are generally used first in a bleeding situation. Applying direct pressure can help to quickly stop the bleeding from minor injuries. Elevation can assist in reducing blood flow to the affected area, while ice can help constrict blood vessels. However, when these techniques do not suffice or in severe cases of traumatic injuries where time is crucial, a tourniquet may be the only effective means to save a life by halting the hemorrhage.