If life-threatening external bleeding persists after direct pressure and dressings, what is the next step per protocol?

If life-threatening external bleeding persists after direct pressure and dressings, what is the next step per protocol?

• A. Apply warm compress.
• B. Consider applying a tourniquet.
• C. Discontinue treatment.
• D. Call for air support.

Answer: (B)

When a patient has life-threatening external bleeding that doesn’t respond to direct pressure and dressings, the next step is to escalate to a tourniquet. A tourniquet can stop the arterial blood flow that’s driving hemorrhage from a limb, which direct pressure alone can’t control. Apply it to the limb, 2 to 3 inches above the wound (well above the injury, away from the knee or elbow joint), and tighten until the bleeding stops. Note the time of application and do not remove the tourniquet once in place. After securing bleeding control, advance to rapid transport and continue monitoring for shock. Warm compresses won’t stop bleeding and aren’t a substitute for hemorrhage control; stopping treatment or delaying transport isn’t appropriate.

When a patient has life-threatening external bleeding that doesn’t respond to direct pressure and dressings, the next step is to escalate to a tourniquet. A tourniquet can stop the arterial blood flow that’s driving hemorrhage from a limb, which direct pressure alone can’t control. Apply it to the limb, 2 to 3 inches above the wound (well above the injury, away from the knee or elbow joint), and tighten until the bleeding stops. Note the time of application and do not remove the tourniquet once in place. After securing bleeding control, advance to rapid transport and continue monitoring for shock. Warm compresses won’t stop bleeding and aren’t a substitute for hemorrhage control; stopping treatment or delaying transport isn’t appropriate.