2-15. CHECK THE CIRCULATION BELOW THE PRESSURE DRESSING
Recheck the casualty's blood circulation and nerve function below the wound. If
possible, compare the area below the wound to the same area on the uninjured limb.
Use the same procedures given in paragraph 2-8.
2-16. LOOSEN AND RETIE THE PRESSURE DRESSING BANDAGE, IF NEEDED
If the circulation and nerve function below the wound were not impaired before
the pressure dressing was applied but are impaired now, the bandage may be too
tight. Loosen and retie the bandage; then check the area below the wound again. If
circulation and nerve function are not restored, evacuate the casualty as soon as
possible.
2-17. EVALUATE THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE PRESSURE DRESSING
After applying the pressure dressing and manual pressure, check for continued
bleeding from the wound.
a. If the wound continues to bleed profusely, apply a tourniquet.
CAUTION:
A tourniquet is not used for wounds to the head, neck, or trunk.
NOTE:
A tourniquet is not used for a wound on the hand or foot. Bleeding from
such injuries can be controlled using a dressing, manual pressure, and
elevation.
b. If the bleeding has been controlled, proceed to check the casualty for other
injuries. Continue to monitor the pressure dressing. If bleeding begins again, apply
manual pressure. Apply a tourniquet, if needed. Also, monitor the casualty for signs
of shock (Lesson 7).
2-18. APPLY A TOURNIQUET
A tourniquet is applied only if bleeding from an upper arm, forearm, thigh, or
lower leg threatens the casualty's life. Procedures for applying a tourniquet follow.
a. Select the Tourniquet Site. Select the area on the limb where you will
place the tourniquet band. The site should be two to four inches above the edge of the
wound (between the wound and the heart), but not over a joint. If a field dressing has
been applied, the tourniquet must be above the edge of the field dressing. If the
wound is just below the elbow or knee, select a site above the joint and as close to the
joint as possible.
MD0554
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