Which method is primarily used to control life-threatening hemorrhage in TCCC?

The primary method used to control life-threatening hemorrhage in Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) is through direct pressure and tourniquets. Direct pressure is the first-line intervention in managing external bleeding; it involves applying firm pressure to the wound to help clot the blood. If direct pressure is ineffective, especially in cases of extremity hemorrhage, the application of a tourniquet can be lifesaving. A tourniquet is designed to occlude blood flow to the distal extremity, significantly reducing blood loss during critical situations.

This approach is crucial in TCCC because uncontrolled hemorrhage is a leading cause of preventable death on the battlefield. The urgency in managing severe bleeding means that swift action—such as applying direct pressure or a tourniquet—can stabilize the patient and prevent hypovolemic shock. Other methods, like the use of hemostatic agents or fluid resuscitation, may complement these initial interventions but are not the primary means of controlling bleeding.