Tourniquet is a device that is used to apply pressure to a limb or extremity in order to stop the flow of blood. It may be used in emergencies, in surgery, or in post-operative rehabilitation. A tourniquet is also used by the phlebotomist to assess and determine the location of a suitable vein for venipuncture. Proper application of a tourniquet will partially impede venous blood flow back toward the heart and cause the blood to temporarily pool in the vein so the vein is more prominent and the blood is more easily obtained. The tourniquet is applied three to four inches above the needle insertion point and should remain in place no longer than one minute to prevent hemoconcentration.
A simple tourniquet can be made from a stick and a rope (or leather belt), but the use of makeshift tourniquets has been reduced over time due to their ineffectiveness compared to a commercial and professional tourniquet. This may stem the flow of blood, but side effects such as soft tissue damage and nerve damage may occur.
Types
There are three types of tourniquets: surgical tourniquets, emergency tourniquets, and rehabilitation tourniquets. A tourniquet is used by the phlebotomist to assess and determine the location of a suitable vein for venipuncture.
What is tourniquet used for?
Purpose: A tourniquet is a constricting or compressing device used to control venous and arterial circulation to an extremity for a period of time. Pressure is applied circumferentially to the skin and underlying tissues a limb; this pressure is transferred to the vessel wall causing a temporary occlusion.
Do tourniquets stop blood flow?
Tourniquets are an effective way of stopping bleeding from an extremity. They do, however, stop circulation to the affected extremity and should ONLY be used when other methods, such as pressure dressings, have failed (or are likely to fail)
What is a pressure infusion bag used for?
A pressure infusion bag is a specially designed cuff and bladder device used to pressurize sterile parenteral fluids (e.g. blood, IV solutions) to provide for rapid infusion into patients suffering from hypovolemia and its complications.
When should the tourniquet be used?
Tourniquets are tight bands used to completely stop the blood flow to a wound. To control bleeding after an injury to a limb, tourniquets should ideally only be used by first responders trained in emergency first aid.