If the tourniquet is tied too tightly, which sign may occur?

• A. Petechiae
• B. Deep vein thrombosis
• C. Hematoma
• D. Infection

Answer: (A)

Excessive pressure from a tourniquet can rupture the tiny capillaries just under the skin, producing petechiae—those small pinpoint red or purple spots. When the tourniquet is tied too tightly, the increased external pressure raises the hydrostatic pressure in superficial vessels, making it easier for capillaries to leak. Hematoma would be a larger bruise from blood pooling in the tissue, typically related to needle injury or vessel rupture rather than tightness alone. Deep vein thrombosis is a clot inside a deep vein and isn’t caused by how tightly the tourniquet is applied during routine venipuncture. Infection stems from contamination and presents with redness, warmth, swelling, and fever, not from tourniquet pressure.