Final answer:
Leaving a tourniquet on for over 1 minute can cause blood accumulation, tissue damage, nerve damage, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness or cardiac arrest due to increased blood pressure and changes in blood chemistry.
Step-by-step explanation:
Leaving the tourniquet on the arm for longer than 1 minute can lead to an accumulation of blood under pressure, which may result in complications such as changes in blood chemistry, tissue damage due to lack of oxygen (ischemia), and the potential for increased bleeding when the tourniquet is released. In severe cases, prolonged application of a tourniquet can lead to nerve damage, pressure necrosis, or even loss of consciousness, and in extreme cases, cardiac arrest. The buildup of pressure can also interfere with the accuracy of certain blood tests by causing a change in the blood's composition, which is why it is vital for medical professionals to adhere to established guidelines when applying a tourniquet during medical procedures.