Who is responsible for loosening a tourniquet?

In emergency medical situations, the responsibility for loosening a tourniquet typically falls to a medical professional who is trained to evaluate the patient’s condition and manage the tourniquet effectively. A doctor possesses the necessary expertise to assess the situation regarding potential complications of a tourniquet, such as limb ischemia or the risk of bleeding resuming.

This medical evaluation is critical in determining not just when to loosen the tourniquet, but also how to do it safely and effectively without compromising the patient’s health. Doctors are equipped with the knowledge of how long a tourniquet can be safely applied and can make informed decisions about the urgency and method of loosening it based on the patient's overall condition.

While nurses, paramedics, and first responders also play essential roles in emergency care, the final decision regarding loosening a tourniquet is best left to those with the extensive training and understanding of the patient’s medical needs, making the doctor the most appropriate choice in this scenario.