Tourniquet Application

Homemade and Store-bought tourniquets need to be considered when applying a tourniquet to a patient. These will have different builds, which means different modes of application.

Using a store-bought tourniquet is always better, but there are times where improvisation is needed. Anything that wraps around the limb and could have some sort of rod attached to it will work.

Steps

1. Call emergency services.
2. Slip the tourniquet over the patient’s affected limb.

       1. If you cannot do this, unlace the tourniquet and wrap it around manually.

3. Put the tourniquet as close to the wound as possible and tighten it.
4. Fasten the tourniquet and turn the know until bleeding stops.

       1. Watch the wound for bleeding.    2. Check for capillary refill test. If it is delayed, your tourniquet works.

5. Fasten the rod in the resting spot to lock it into place.
6. Mark either onto the patient or the tourniquet the time of application.

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