How to apply a tourniquet
Oct 23, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Qing
Introduction
A tourniquet is a common clinical tool used to control external bleeding, reduce blood loss, and prevent shock. It can be applied by wrapping it around a limb. However, a tourniquet should not be left in place too long when treating arterial bleeding, as this may cause ischemic necrosis in the distal tissues. If bleeding cannot be controlled with a tourniquet, prompt medical attention is recommended.
Generally, a tourniquet is a common clinical tool used to control external bleeding, reduce blood loss, and prevent shock. A tourniquet can be applied by wrapping it around a limb. The specific steps are as follows:
1. Select the proximal site of the injured limb, usually 5–10 cm above the skin injury or ruptured vein.
2. Place a soft padding material such as a thick cloth strip, towel, or clothing on the upper third of the upper arm.
3. Use the left thumb, index finger, and middle finger to hold the end of the tourniquet, leaving a certain length extending out, and place it onto the padding.
4. With the right hand, take the front end of the tourniquet and wrap it once around the arm from below, bringing it over the tail end and then cross and grip it between the index and middle fingers.
5. Wrap it around once more, use the left index and middle fingers to pinch the tourniquet and pull downward to form a slipknot, then thread the tail end of the tourniquet through the knot to secure it.
The duration of tourniquet application for arterial bleeding should not be too long, to avoid ischemic necrosis in the distal limb. If bleeding cannot be controlled with a tourniquet, prompt medical attention is recommended.
