What should you do if a tourniquet fails to stop the bleeding?

In a situation where a tourniquet has failed to stop the bleeding, considering additional measures like applying direct pressure is a critical step to help control the hemorrhage. Direct pressure can promote clot formation and improve the chances of stopping the bleeding, especially when a tourniquet alone is insufficient.

Applying ice to the area is not appropriate in this scenario, as ice can constrict blood vessels but does not directly address the source of significant bleeding. Waiting for medical personnel may delay necessary care, and in the meantime, taking action is crucial to prevent further blood loss. Removing the tourniquet could lead to a resurgence of uncontrolled bleeding, making the situation worse. Therefore, combining a tourniquet with direct pressure is a more effective approach in managing serious bleeding when the first line of defense fails.