Results for tourniquet

How do you apply a tourniquet during care under fire?

Apply it high and tight on the injured limb, over the uniform, well above the wound. Tighten until the bleeding stops, secure the windlass, and note the time of application. Refine the placement later during tactical field care.

How does tourniquet placement change once you reach tactical field care?

Reassess the wound and, if the situation allows, move the tourniquet to roughly two to three inches above the wound and never directly over a joint. Tighten until the bleeding stops and the distal pulse is gone. Write the time of application on the tourniquet and the casualty card. Do not loosen or remove a tourniquet that has been applied.

What are your priorities during care under fire?

Return fire and gain fire superiority, keep yourself from becoming a casualty, and get the casualty to cover if it can be done safely. The only medical treatment expected is stopping life-threatening extremity bleeding with a tourniquet. Airway management and detailed assessment wait until tactical field care.