Tourniquets

Massive hemorrhage is rapid, life-threatening blood loss resulting from major blood vessel damage. Shock can develop in minutes or even faster, and failure to provide timely aid can lead to death. Therefore, everyone should know what a tourniquet is and when to use it.

What is Massive Hemorrhage and How to Identify It

Massive bleeding most commonly occurs during severe car accidents, gunshot or stab wounds, and workplace incidents. It is a misconception that it can only be identified by a pulsing stream of bright red blood: major veins and multiple blood vessels bleeding simultaneously can also cause fatal blood loss.

Key signs of massive hemorrhage:

• Spurting blood from the wound.
• A large pool of blood under the victim.
• Blood-soaked clothing or bandages.

What is a Tourniquet and How Long Can It Remain Applied

A tourniquet is a medical device designed to stop life-threatening bleeding from an arm or leg. If you are in doubt whether limb bleeding is life-threatening, apply a tourniquet.

Fig. 1. CAT gen7 tourniquet

Fig. 2. TMT tourniquet

Fig. 3. SICH tourniquet

A tourniquet is a temporary measure. Serious complications are generally rare within the first 2 hours; however, the longer it remains applied, the higher the risk of tissue, blood vessel, and nerve damage. Application times of 6 hours or longer can result in severe consequences, including limb amputation. Write down the application time and do not loosen the tourniquet yourself—this must be done by medical personnel.

Recommended Tourniquets

There are many devices on the market, but based on our experience and that of Ukrainian medics, we have selected the most reliable options:

1. CAT gen7
2. SAM XT Tourniquet
3. SICH Tourniquet

You can also purchase a junctional tourniquet in our store:

1. AAJT-S Junctional Tourniquet

Fig. 4 AAJT-S Junctional Tourniquet

Video: How to Apply a SICH Tourniquet

In the video below, an instructor demonstrates how to apply a SICH tourniquet to an arm and a leg.

Training and Support

When needed, we organize training sessions on how to use tourniquets and other medical equipment. For more information: info@parakomanai.lt.

Quality gear and knowing how to use it are what can save a life in a critical moment.