What is a tactical tourniquet and how to use it?
A tactical tourniquet is a medical device used in cases of very large hemorrhages that often threaten life. It is an essential component of every soldier's medical equipment, but it is also used by other uniformed services and civilians.
In this article, you will learn what a tactical tourniquet is and in which situations it is used. We'll also provide tips on how to correctly apply a tourniquet to an injured limb and discuss the differences between the most popular models, CAT and SOFT.
What is a tactical tourniquet and what is its use?
A tactical tourniquet (also known as a compression or constriction band) is used to stop very severe bleeding occurring on the lower and upper limbs. Its purpose is to completely block the flow of blood to the injury site.
According to the guidelines of Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC), many armies around the world equip their soldiers with tactical tourniquets. Their use significantly increases the chances of survival in critical situations. It is estimated that the widespread use of tactical tourniquets has caused a significant decrease in the mortality of wounded on the modern battlefield. Currently, outside of the military, tactical tourniquets are also a common element of police, medical services, fire and border services equipment, as well as among civilians.
For civilians, a tactical tourniquet may be particularly useful in a car, as road accidents are among the most common situations where there is a need to quickly stop bleeding. Tactical tourniquets are also a useful piece of equipment at shooting ranges, where the risk of accidental injuries is elevated. Additionally, as part of preparation for crisis and survival situations, it is worth learning how to properly apply it and regularly practicing different scenarios.
The use of a tactical tourniquet is considered a lifesaving measure; however, its use also carries some risks. The tourniquet should only be used in critical situations such as:
- inability to stop bleeding with all available methods, i.e., elevating the limb, applying pressure to the bleeding site, or applying a pressure dressing,
- traumatic amputations, crush injuries,
- mass accidents (disasters) - in order to provide assistance to as many victims as possible in the shortest possible time.
Applying a tactical tourniquet - how to do it correctly?
Correct application of a tactical tourniquet can significantly increase the chances of saving the victim's life. Below are the steps you should follow to properly apply a CAT type tactical tourniquet:
1. Wrap the tactical tourniquet around the limb, placing it approximately 5-7 cm above the bleeding site. If you cannot locate the exact bleeding site, place the tourniquet high on the limb.
2. Tighten the strap and secure its end after wrapping it around the limb. Do not cover the windlass. The loop should be tight enough so that the ends of three fingers cannot be inserted between the strap and the limb.
3. Turn the windlass until the bleeding is completely stopped.
4. Place the windlass in the securing clip. Check if there is still any bleeding and if there is a detectable pulse in the periphery. If the wound still bleeds or a peripheral pulse is detectable, consider tightening the tourniquet more or applying a second tourniquet above the first.
5. Secure the windlass with the strap located on the securing clip. Note the time of tourniquet application on the strap or in a clearly visible place on the victim's body. A tourniquet can remain on a limb for up to two hours!
Remember that:
- The tourniquet should be tight enough on the lower or upper limb to control the hemorrhage. The main goal is to prevent blood from escaping beyond the tourniquet!
- A once-applied compression band should not be loosened! This can result in rebleeding.
- In most cases, a single band is effective in controlling bleeding, but in some situations, a second band may be necessary. It should then be applied above the first band.
Which tactical tourniquet to choose - CAT or SOFT?
On the market, there are several types of tactical tourniquets that may differ slightly in some respects. One thing is certain — each of them aims to stop hemorrhages, especially in situations where other methods of stopping bleeding have proven ineffective. The most popular are two kinds of tourniquets — CAT and SOFT.
CAT, or Combat Application Tourniquet, is currently the most commonly used tourniquet by numerous armies around the world. It consists of a strap covered with Velcro, and the constricting element is a plastic windlass with a lock.
SOFTT, on the other hand, is one of the most popular alternatives to CAT, also used by the military and special units. In terms of construction, it is similar to CAT, but instead of Velcro as the locking element, it is equipped with a buckle and securing screw.
You are probably now wondering which tourniquet to choose – CAT or SOFT? Both are effective in stopping hemorrhages, and the choice between them mainly depends on individual preferences. CAT has the advantage of being the first on the market and has been adopted by both the British and American armies for combat use. Numerous studies based on the experiences of thousands of severely injured soldiers confirm its high effectiveness.
Although SOFT does not have as long a history as CAT, it is used by many elite units with excellent results. Many people choose this tourniquet because of its metal buckle, which eliminates the need to thread Velcro as in the case of CAT, making it easier to apply. SOFT is also lighter and more compact when folded, making it easier to carry.
Offer of tactical tourniquets at Militaria.pl
Militaria.pl offers tactical tourniquets manufactured by brands such as Tactical Medical Solutions and CAT Resources. By deciding to purchase a tourniquet from our offer, you can be sure that these are original and durable products.
We offer CAT and SOFT type tourniquets. We recommend pairing them with special pouches where the tourniquet can be stored. The pouch can be attached, for example, to a vest or belt for quick and easy access to the tourniquet.
