What is the maximum time a tourniquet should remain on before conversion is recommended?

The maximum time a tourniquet should remain in place before conversion is six hours. This guideline is based on research and practical experiences from combat and trauma situations, which indicate that while a tourniquet is a life-saving measure for controlling severe hemorrhage, prolonged application can lead to complications such as ischemia or tissue necrosis.

After six hours, the risk of tissue damage increases significantly, and it is essential to convert to a different method of bleeding control or to reassess the situation. If a tourniquet is required for longer than this period, healthcare providers should be prepared to closely monitor the patient for signs of complications and consider surgical intervention or other advanced care as needed to manage the blood flow and prevent further harm.