What is tourniquettes?

Tourniquets are devices typically used to constrict or completely stop blood flow in a limb or extremity. They are commonly used in medical emergencies to control bleeding, especially in situations where direct pressure or other methods of bleeding control are ineffective.

There are two primary types of tourniquets- one-handed or self-applied tourniquets, such as the Combat Application Tourniquet (CAT) or SOF-Tactical Tourniquet (SOF-T), and those that require a second person to apply them, like the pneumatic tourniquet.

Tourniquets must be applied carefully and should only be used as a last resort in medical emergencies, as leaving them on for too long can cause nerve damage or tissue death. It is important to release and reapply them regularly, and to keep a close eye on the patient to ensure there are no complications.

Overall, tourniquets can be an effective means of controlling blood loss in emergency situations and can help save lives when used properly.