Steps for Correct Application of a Tourniquet
Indications, Contraindications, and Monitoring of Tourniquets in Children
Indications for placement | Suspected arterial extremity
hemorrhage that is unable to be
controlled with a pressure dressing |
Contraindications for removal in the emergency department | Tourniquet placed within inches of an amputation site
Hemodynamic instability
Other life-threatening injuries
Inability to closely monitor for
rebleeding and other complications
Note that patients with tourniquets in place for >120 minutes should be observed in a critical care setting for complications. |
Monitoring after tourniquet release in the emergency department | Conduct distal neurovascular examination
Assess for rebleeding for at least 1 hour
If reapplication is required, consider definitive surgical control |
