Where should the CAT tourniquet be placed relative to the injury?

Where should the CAT tourniquet be placed relative to the injury?

• A. Tighten windlass
• B. Position CAT 2-inches above injury
• C. Secure velcro
• D. Mark time on forehead

Answer: (B)

Place the CAT tourniquet about two inches above the injury on the affected limb, toward the body. This proximal position compresses the artery feeding the wound, which is what stops the hemorrhage. Putting the device directly over the wound can fail to occlude arterial flow and may cause unnecessary tissue damage, so the goal is arterial control by positioning the tourniquet upstream from the injury. After placement, tighten the windlass until bleeding stops, then secure the Velcro. Time of application should be recorded in a standard way, not on the forehead.

Place the CAT tourniquet about two inches above the injury on the affected limb, toward the body. This proximal position compresses the artery feeding the wound, which is what stops the hemorrhage. Putting the device directly over the wound can fail to occlude arterial flow and may cause unnecessary tissue damage, so the goal is arterial control by positioning the tourniquet upstream from the injury. After placement, tighten the windlass until bleeding stops, then secure the Velcro. Time of application should be recorded in a standard way, not on the forehead.