References
Combat Application Tourniquet: best practice use
Abstract
In this new monthly feature, the paramedic education team at Edge Hill University focuses on the clinical skills carried out by paramedics on the frontlines, highlighting the importance of these skills and how to perform them. In this month's issue,
This first article in the Journal of Paramedic Practice's monthly Clinical Skills feature highlights best practice use of a Combat Application Tourniquet® (CAT®). It also provides background information relating to the use of a CAT in the clinical practice setting.
A ‘tourniquet’ or CAT is a device designed to specifically occlude arterial and venous blood flow in an extremity. To do this, it uses a mechanical advantage device, differing from ligature type devices used for intravenous cannulation and other procedures (Amy et al, 2014).
The CAT is a unique piece of medical equipment as it can save a patient from exsanguination (severe uncontrolled blood loss). However, if used inappropriately, it can cause injuries to be significantly worsened to the point that a limb may need to be amputated (Lee et al, 2007; Dayan et al, 2008).
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