Final Thoughts
The increased use of tourniquets for severe and complex extremity wounds has made an indelible mark on preventable death by improving casualty survivability and decreasing morbidity. Tourniquet application, release, replacement, and conversion done improperly can ultimately increase hemorrhage, morbidity, and mortality rates. Training proficiency, both in controlled and stressful environments, in addition to pre-planned contingency measures can prevent additional hemorrhage from becoming clinically significant. Early tourniquet optimization should be attempted as soon as feasible to minimize complications and reduce morbidity. Within the wilderness setting, CoTCCC-recommended tourniquets and hemostatic gauzes should undoubtedly be included in one’s backcountry aid kit, readily accessible, and the provider should be well-trained in their use before any emergent need.
Recommended resources for up-to-date information on TCCC Guidelines: deployedmedicine.com/
deployedmedicine.com/
References:
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