What are contraindications for using a tourniquet in soft-tissue injuries?

Using a tourniquet is indicated in situations where life-threatening bleeding cannot be controlled by other means. Therefore, one of the primary contraindications for using a tourniquet is when direct pressure can manage the bleeding effectively. Direct pressure is the first-line treatment for controlling bleeding in soft-tissue injuries, and applying a tourniquet is generally reserved for more severe cases where this method fails or when the bleeding is uncontrollable.

This is essential because the unnecessary application of a tourniquet can lead to complications, such as tissue damage and loss of limb function. Understanding the indications and contraindications for tourniquet use ensures that it is employed appropriately, maximizing patient outcomes while minimizing potential harm.