When it comes to emergency situations, having the proper knowledge and tools can make a life-saving difference. One essential tool to consider having in your Trauma/First Aid Kit is a R.A.T.S. tourniquet (Rapid Application Tourniquet System). But do you know how to properly deploy it in a time-sensitive situation? Let's dive into the steps to ensure you are prepared to use a R.A.T.S. tourniquet effectively.
What is a R.A.T.S. Tourniquet?
A R.A.T.S. tourniquet is a Rapid Application Tourniquet System designed to provide quick and effective bleeding control in pre-hospital, emergency situations. It is a compact and lightweight tool that can be easily carried in a pocket or medical kit, making it ideal for first responders, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone concerned about Stop the Bleed emergency preparedness. Made of a solid vulcanized rubber core with a nylon sheath around it and combined with the solid aluminum locking cleat mechanism that creates high efficiency. And per RAPID Medical, it is safe to use on adults, children and pets alike.
Step 1: Assess the Situation
Before deploying a R.A.T.S. tourniquet, assess the situation to ensure your safety and the safety of the injured subject. Identify the source of the bleeding and determine if a tourniquet is the best option for the situation. Remember, a tourniquet should only be used for life-threatening bleeding situations that cannot be controlled by direct pressure or other means.
Step 2: Apply the Tourniquet
When applying a RATS tourniquet, follow these steps: (From the RAPID Medical Website)
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Situate the R.A.T.S. Tourniquet on the injured limb approximately 2 to 3 inches above the wound, (or, in a high-risk situation, as high on the injured limb as possible).
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Feed the running end through the looped end of the tourniquet and pull back on it until the tourniquet is snug around the limb.
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Begin wrapping the running end of the tourniquet around the limb with close, tight wraps, each wrap below the previous wrap.
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Continue wrapping tightly around the limb to stop the blood flow. As mentioned above, each wrap should lay parallel below the previous one. The width of the tourniquet should be 1 1/2 to 3 inches once completed.
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Pull the running end of the tourniquet all the way up into the solid aluminum locking cleat, securing it into place.
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If possible, write the time of tourniquet application on the attached "TIME TAG" for emergency room personnel information.
Step 3: Seek Emergency Medical Help
After applying the tourniquet, seek medical help as soon as possible. A tourniquet is a temporary solution and should not be left on for an extended period (Recommended no more than two hours to minimize the risk of tissue/nerve damage). Make sure to inform medical professionals that a tourniquet has been applied and provide them with any additional relevant information about the situation.
Practice Makes Perfect, (When Done Correctly Each Time)
Remember, proper training and practice are essential when it comes to using a R.A.T.S. tourniquet or any other medical tool (As long as you are deploying the tourniquet correctly each time you practice). Familiarize yourself with the device and practice deploying it correctly in a controlled setting to ensure you can use it effectively in a pre-hospital, emergency situation. Being prepared can make all the difference when seconds count.
By following these steps and staying informed on proper R.A.T.S. tourniquet use, you can be better equipped to handle pre-hospital emergency situations and potentially save lives. Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember the importance of proper R.A.T.S. tourniquet deployment.
FOOTNOTE:
As Documented Per RAPID Medical:
"A recent Cambridge Study, ‘The Efficacy of Novel Commercial Tourniquet Designs for Extremity Hemorrhage Control,’ determined that RATS and CAT success rates for distal arterial flow cessation were the same." Read the study in its entirety