If direct pressure and a pressure dressing fail to stop severe external bleeding from an extremity, what should you apply?

If direct pressure and a pressure dressing fail to stop severe external bleeding from an extremity, what should you apply?

• A. Tourniquet proximal to the injury
• B. Elevate the limb
• C. Apply direct pressure
• D. Hemostatic gauze

Answer: (A)

When severe external bleeding from a limb cannot be stopped with direct pressure and a pressure dressing, applying a tourniquet proximal to the injury is the next step. A tourniquet works by stopping arterial inflow to the distal limb, which is essential when bleeding is life-threatening and other pressure-based measures have failed. Place it around the limb, a couple of inches above the wound (avoiding a joint), and tighten until bleeding is controlled and distal circulation can be assessed as possible. Secure the device and note the time of application for EMS. Continue rapid transport and monitor the patient’s condition. Elevation can help with some injuries but isn’t reliable for controlling life-threatening arterial bleeding. Hemostatic gauze can be used as an adjunct, but when direct pressure and a pressure dressing have failed, a tourniquet is the most effective immediate intervention.

When severe external bleeding from a limb cannot be stopped with direct pressure and a pressure dressing, applying a tourniquet proximal to the injury is the next step. A tourniquet works by stopping arterial inflow to the distal limb, which is essential when bleeding is life-threatening and other pressure-based measures have failed. Place it around the limb, a couple of inches above the wound (avoiding a joint), and tighten until bleeding is controlled and distal circulation can be assessed as possible. Secure the device and note the time of application for EMS. Continue rapid transport and monitor the patient’s condition.

Elevation can help with some injuries but isn’t reliable for controlling life-threatening arterial bleeding. Hemostatic gauze can be used as an adjunct, but when direct pressure and a pressure dressing have failed, a tourniquet is the most effective immediate intervention.