Control life-threatening extremity bleeding
Practice the sequence you already learned for “Control life-threatening extremity bleeding” until the order feels automatic. Drill the Stop the Bleed order from bleeding-control training. Expose, press, and pack before a tourniquet unless direct pressure is impossible. Tighten and time the tourniquet as separate actions.
- Ensure the scene is safe.
- Expose the wound.
- Apply firm, continuous direct pressure.
- Pack a deep wound with gauze if you were trained to pack.
- Apply a manufactured tourniquet 2–3 inches above the wound if bleeding is not controlled.
- Tighten until bleeding stops.
- Note the time of application.
- Activate emergency services.
- Do not loosen the tourniquet.