Tourniquet

Question 1

Tourniquet -Background

Answer 1

Works by compressing blood vessels using pressure.

Question 2

Tourniquet - Indications

Answer 2

Severe uncontrolled bleeding from limb, despite direct sustained pressure.
Bleeding from a limb that is life threatening.
Severe bleeding from a limb when the bleeding site cannot be reached.
Crush injury of a limb that is trapped under weight for 60+ mins, prior to release.

Question 3

Tourniquet - Contraindications & Cautions

Answer 3

None

Question 4

Tourniquet - Complications

Answer 4

Severe pain. Pain relief may be required.
If lower arm or leg, then two bones may limit pressure. Use upper limb.
If on a thigh, then two may be required due to large thigh.
Permanent tissue damage.

Question 5

Tourniquet - Procedure

Answer 5

1. Explain procedure and get informed consent.
2. Remove limb from clothing.
3. Apply tourniquet correctly.
4. Tighten until bleeding stops.
5. Leave wound exposed.
6. Check if blood and distal pulse has stopped.
7. Document application.