Procedure 47 — Wound Care: Tourniqet SWATT

What is the first clinical indication for SWAT-T tourniquet use?

Life threatening extremity hemorrhage that cannot be controlled by other means.

What is the second clinical indication for SWAT-T tourniquet use?

Serious or life threatening extremity hemorrhage where tactical considerations prevent the use of standard hemorrhage control techniques.

What is the third clinical indication for SWAT-T tourniquet use?

Partial or complete amputation where resuscitative efforts may restore bleeding.

What does the acronym SWAT-T stand for functionally?

Tourniquet, Pressure Dressing, Elastic Bandage.

What type of material is the SWAT-T made from?

An ultra-compact and economical rubber bandage.

What does the visual diagram on the SWAT-T bandage act as?

A tension reference guide for quick and easy application.

What does the SWAT-T diagram indicate about pressure?

When the bandage is creating enough pressure to perform as a tourniquet or a pressure dressing.

What visual indicator shows enough pressure has been applied for SWAT-T tourniquet use?

The oval diagram on the bandage widens to match the circle.

What is done after achieving the correct tension for SWAT-T tourniquet use?

Tuck the end in to maintain pressure.

How is the SWAT-T applied as a pressure dressing?

Stretch and wrap it around the wound and over the dressing, as with any other emergency bandage, then tuck.

What maintains pressure on the dressing and wound when using SWAT-T as a pressure dressing?

Tucking the end of the SWAT-T under itself after wrapping.

Name three uses of the SWAT-T as an elastic bandage.

Holding ice or dressings with adjustable pressure, acting as a sling, or stabilizing a twisted ankle or knee.

What additional use is listed for the SWAT-T as an elastic bandage?

Holding an object to a limb, acting as a splint.

What method is used for all SWAT-T elastic bandage applications?

The stretch, wrap, and tuck method.

What patient populations can the SWAT-T be used on?

Adult and pediatric patients, as well as K-9s.

When should the SWAT-T be applied?

When external hemorrhage is present.

What provider levels can apply a SWAT-T tourniquet?

EMT-A, EMT-B, and EMT-P.