I just re-certified in first aid, CPR and AED last week. Our instructor was a retired Portland firefighter/paramedic with 30 years on the job. Regarding the use of tourniquets, he said they were a no no in almost every case. He also noted in 30 years he used them maybe 2-3 times tops, and those were limited to total amputations of a limb. For major arterial bleeding he said the best thing is to get gauze, cloth, etc. and get it covering the wound with direct pressure, then use the pressure points on the femoral artery for the leg (right next to the groin) or the radial artery for the arm (just below and to the inside of the bicep). He said you'll control the bleeding long enough to get help. He also said you'll protect them from losing a limb if you do it that way. He said if you use a tourniquet for anything but an amputation, be prepared for them to lose the limb immediately below the spot where it was applied.
I've heard different stories regarding tourniquets in various training classes over the years, even have been shown how to use them, but I'll tend to take the word/training of someone that has actually had to use them on the job. With that in mind, I'll take his advice and avoid tourniquet use unless absolutely necessary.
I've heard different stories regarding tourniquets in various training classes over the years, even have been shown how to use them, but I'll tend to take the word/training of someone that has actually had to use them on the job. With that in mind, I'll take his advice and avoid tourniquet use unless absolutely necessary.
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