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EMR
EMT
AEMT
Paramedic
Extended
Tourniquet Application
Clinical Indications:
Life-threatening hemorrhage from an extremity that cannot be controlled by direct pressure (whether direct pressure
alone is inadequate, or inadequate resources exist to hold pressure while attending to the patient)
Clinical Considerations:
Recent science has indicated that tourniquet use is very safe if released within a two hour window
Recent science has also indicated that tourniquets may be used in place of direct pressure, if resources on scene to
maintain pressure while providing adequate patient care are limited
Tourniquets are painful. Provide pain management.
Steps
Performed?
Yes No
1.
Apply commercial tourniquet to the skin proximal to the area of bleeding
2” proximal when able
Do not apply to a joint
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2.
Secure the tourniquet in place with the Velcro strap
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3.
Continue to tighten the tourniquet until hemorrhage is controlled
Depending on the severity of the bleed, it may be very uncomfortable for the patient
Avoid over-tightening the tourniquet, only apply as much pressure is needed to control the
hemorrhage
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4.
Note the time the tourniquet was applied in the patient care report
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5.
Continuously reassess the extremity for bleeding
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6.
If bleeding recurs, leave the initial tourniquet in place and consider:
Direct pressure
Application of a second tourniquet proximal to the first
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7.
After reassessment, follow pain management protocol and document effect.
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8.
Notify the receiving hospital that a tourniquet is in place.
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Tourniquet Application