What device is used for bleeding control that constricts all blood flow to and from an extremity?

The device used for bleeding control that constricts all blood flow to and from an extremity is a tourniquet. A tourniquet works by being tightly wound around an extremity, effectively compressing the blood vessels and halting blood flow. This is particularly important in life-threatening situations where severe bleeding occurs due to traumatic injuries.

Tourniquets are specifically designed to apply direct pressure to the limb and are intended for use in scenarios where direct pressure on a wound is insufficient to control bleeding. They are often used for traumatic amputations or significant arterial bleeding when traditional methods fail. Proper application and timely use of a tourniquet can be lifesaving.

Other devices such as dressings, bandages, and compression wraps are important for managing bleeding but operate differently. Dressings and bandages are primarily used to cover and protect wounds and may promote clotting through direct pressure but do not completely stop blood flow to the extremities. Compression wraps may help control bleeding by providing sustained pressure on a wound, but they are not designed to completely occlude blood flow like a tourniquet does.