Phlebotomy Technician Practice Exam (NCPT/CPT)

What purpose does the tourniquet serve?

1. Aids in needle insertion

2. Dams up blood

3. Reduces pain

4. Prevents infection

The correct answer is: Dams up blood

A This response is incorrect because a tourniquet does not aid in needle insertion. Its main purpose is to temporarily restrict blood flow to a specific area of the body. B: This is the correct answer. A tourniquet works by compressing the blood vessels and preventing blood flow to a specific area of the body. This can be useful in medical procedures to reduce blood loss. C: This response is incorrect because a tourniquet does not reduce pain. In fact, it may cause discomfort or pain when being applied. D: This response is incorrect because a tourniquet does not prevent infection. Its main purpose is to control bleeding and reduce blood loss, while preventing infection involves different methods such as cleaning and disinfecting wounds.