09/08/2020
By
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We can never review the basics enough and mastering them is imperative. Here's one of my favorite posts from a while back. Spaced repetition is a good thing!
TOURNIQUET PLACEMENT & FACTS:
Correct TQ placement and application is one of those things I absolutely stress when teaching. Especially at point of injury, if there is evidence of lifethreatening bleeding and clothing is obscuring the wound(s) or unable to visualize
NOTE: Left leg TQx2 placement is flush "KISSING" without multicam showing between while the Right has crossing TQ improperly positioned.
1. Place the TQ high and tight (classically care under fire) in the groin just below inguinal ligament or high into axilla. Also known as "HASTY TQs"
2. Dont place over the iliac crest or ASIS (anterior superior iliac spine). Place just below inguinal ligament, especially in undetermined hemorrhage source.
3. Do NOT get the male ge****ls caught up in the TQ.
4. If multiple TQ needed, place flush with one another
5. That first pressure tightening pull of the strap through the loop is critical. Make that thing as tight! Then use the windlass to synch down.
6. Standard teaching is up to 2 hours TQ time without real concern for tissue damage. It is important to attempt TQ conversition --> pressure dressing or other control means if in your scope of practice. (Tourniquet takedown)
7. If you're not sure they need at TQ and debating with yourself, place the TQ and always error on the agressive treatment approach in traumatic bleeding . If they're conscious, that TQ will hurt with proper application
8. You can place in 2-bone compartments like forearms and lower tibia/fibula
9. Do NOT place over joints
10. After care under fire/ safe location, place TQ on skin (Clothing of participant kept on during demonstration)
NOTE: If not under fire or in a dangerous setting or have good visibility, place TQ 2-3 inches ABOVE wound (not over joints).
#911