Challenge your thinking: mechanical direct pressure device
Nothing newThe control of compressible catastrophic haemorrhage prior to airway, breathing and circulation (CABCDE) is not a new approach, being advocated for civilian use by Hodgetts et al in 2006, and implemented by most ambulance services (including the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust) in 2008. It includes strategies for tourniquet use, pressure dressings and haemostatic agents, and while all have a place in the control of haemorrhage, they also require accurate teaching and practise.However, despite these implementations, it seems that we still have some way to go to ensure that all paramedic and ambulance staff are drilled in the use of their haemorrhage control equipment.