How to Use a First Aid Tourniquet: A Step-by-Step Guide

The goal of Medresq is to teach people how to use key elements of first aid (for example, a tourniquet). A tourniquet is a specialized lifesaving tool to be used in times of an emergency; knowing precisely how to use one is really paramount. In this guide, we will discuss what a tourniquet is, how to use it, and when you use one. We will also discuss a few tips to help you feel comfortable using a tourniquet should the need arise. 

What is a Tourniquet?

A tourniquet is a useful device that is applied to the wound to prevent bleeding. A tourniquet is so useful because it controls blood flow when someone is bleeding a lot. This is used especially in emergency situations, such as when somebody is injured and needs help immediately. Understanding what a tourniquet is—how they work and what to use them for—may better prepare and enable you to assist someone in distress. 

How to Use a Tourniquet?

Applying a tourniquet is vitally important and not that difficult to do properly. Here are the steps to follow:

Wrap the Tourniquet, The first thing to do is that you have to wrap the first aid kit with tourniquet around the arm or leg, this time more towards the body than the wound. Which means you want to put it above where you're bleeding. 

Tighten: Now, you need to tighten the tourniquet. You want it to be tight enough to cut off the bleeding, but not so tight that it cuts off blood to the limb entirely. Getting the balance right is the neat bit. 

Stop the Bleeding: Once you have the tourniquet tightened, you will twist the tourniquet until bleeding stops. It will take a bit of effort, but you must continue to turn the device until blood flow has stopped.

Check for a Pulse: Finally, it also helps to check for a pulse below the tourniquet. This means that you should check for a heartbeat in the part of the limb that is distal to the tourniquet. That will also allow you to determine whether blood is still circulating to the rest of the branch. 

Applying a Tourniquet in an Emergency

In a true emergency, the use of a tourniquet can be lifesaving. If you spot someone bleeding profusely, applying a tourniquet quickly can help control the bleeding until professional medical assistance arrives. Please note that a tourniquet should only be used as a last resort if other methods of stop the bleeding did not work.

Steps to Apply a Tourniquet

Apply the tourniquet: The first thing you need to do is apply the tourniquet above the wound. Getting it high enough on the limb for control of the bleeding is critical.

Cinch It: Now pull the tourniquet tight. You should tighten it more until you see that the blood is no longer flowing.

Twist the tourniquet medical kit: As soon as it is tight, twist the tourniquet until the bleeding completely ceases. You might have to twist it a few times, but be patient.

This is critical, as that helps assure that blood is still getting to the rest of the arm or leg.

When to Use a Tourniquet?

It is crucial to know when to apply a tourniquet. Only use it when you have been unable to stop bleeding by other means. Other techniques are: also apply direct pressure to the wound, elevate the extremity above the heart, and use the pressure points to help slow down the bleeding. When used correctly, a tourniquet can save a life and preserve the limb.

Steps for Correct Use

Identify the Bleed: The first step is to identify where the bleed has originated. Take a close look to see how serious the injury is.

Apply the Tourniquet: Now apply a tourniquet above the wound. It should be at a height where it  will stop the blood flow area.

Effect Tourniquets: Tighten the Tourniquet: Once applied make sure the tourniquet is tight enough that the bleeding stops. You want to feel some resistance, but not enough to cause pain.

Crank Down the tourniquet: Continue tightening the tourniquet until the bleeding is entirely controlled.

Take Some Pulse: Be sure to keep checking the pulse distal to the tourniquet.

Do not release the tourniquet until help is present Release After Help Arrives: Only release the tourniquet when medical help arrives This allows you to protect the person until the professionals take over.

Using a Tourniquet Quickly

In critical situations, using these devices needs to be done quickly and safely. That said, you may be in this position a lot — car accidents, sports injuries, and just about every other kind of emergency scenario involving heavy bleeding.

How to Use a Tourniquet: Quick Steps?

Locate the Bleeding: Make sure to figure out where the bleeding is coming from.

Apply Direct Pressure: If the bleeding might be addressed by applying a hand directly over the bleeding/open wound site, apply direct pressure in an attempt to slow the bleeding before the use of the tourniquet, etc.).

Step Two: Apply the tourniquet: Next, apply the tourniquet above the injury.

Apply Tourniquet: Pull Tight Until Bleeding Stops

Tighten the Tourniquet: Rotate tourniquet until bleeding has been fully controlled.

Check the for Blood Flow: Check the pulse below the tourniquet to make sure blood is still flowing.

Loosen After Professional Help Comes: Only loosen the tourniquet once professional help has arrived.

Tourniquet Techniques

At Medresq, we think teaching people the proper use of a tourniquet is incredibly important. Having training classes for everyone to learn how to safely use this tool is what we provide. All of our classes are offered online or live in-person, whichever suits you better.

At any rate, properly using a tourniquet can be life-saving in an emergency. Knowing when and how to use it properly is very important in order to not end up damaging the limb. At Medresq, we conduct trainings so that people can be equipped and empowered to take timely actions in a crisis.