Usage and Significance of Aluminum Rod Tourniquet

1. Preparatory Steps

   - Prior to using the aluminum rod tourniquet, make sure the skin around the patient's wound is clean. Eliminate any contaminants close to the wound, like dirt and debris. If feasible, initially rinse the wound with normal saline. However, be cautious not to let the rinsing fluid seep into the deep wound area, as this may exacerbate contamination.

   - Examine the aluminum rod tourniquet to ensure it's in good condition. The aluminum rod should be free of any bends or deformities. The connection part should be solid, and there should be no damage or cracks in the tourniquet's strap.

2. Positioning for Application

   - When dealing with upper limb bleeding, usually place the tourniquet at the upper one - third of the upper arm. Try to avoid positioning it at the lower one - third of the middle part since the nerves are in close proximity to the humerus in this area, which can lead to nerve damage.

   - For lower limb bleeding, apply the tourniquet at the middle of the thigh near the inguinal ligament. The application site must be accurate. Additionally, place an appropriate soft fabric such as gauze or a towel at the application point to prevent the tourniquet from directly pressing on the skin and causing harm.

3. Application Procedure

   - First, loop the tourniquet's strap around the limb once. Then, insert the aluminum rod into the eyelet or the fixing mechanism of the strap.

   - Rotate the aluminum rod to gradually tighten the strap. During this tightening process, keep an eye on the patient's condition, including the color of the limb and the patient's pain response. Generally, it's right when the wound stops bleeding and the distal arterial pulse can no longer be felt. But avoid over - tightening to prevent severe ischemic damage to the limb tissue.

   - Secure the position of the aluminum rod to prevent it from becoming loose. Some aluminum rod tourniquets are equipped with special fastening devices like buckles. Make sure these are tightly fastened.

4. Time Limitation

   - Each use of the aluminum rod tourniquet should not be prolonged. Typically, for the upper limb, usage should not exceed 1 hour, and for the lower limb, it should not exceed 1.5 hours. Prolonged use can cause severe ischemia in the limb and result in serious consequences such as tissue necrosis. If long - term hemostasis is required, after reaching the specified time, loosen the tourniquet for 1 - 2 minutes at regular intervals (for example, every 30 minutes for the upper limb and every 45 minutes for the lower limb) to allow the limb to briefly restore blood circulation. When loosening the tourniquet, be aware that the wound may start bleeding again, and take appropriate measures accordingly.

5. Marking and Record - Keeping

   - After using the aluminum rod tourniquet, mark the time of its use on a conspicuous part of the patient's body, such as the forehead or chest. This allows subsequent medical staff to clearly know how long the tourniquet has been in use. At the same time, record as much of the patient's basic information, injury details, and tourniquet usage as possible to provide comprehensive data for subsequent medical treatment.

II. Importance of the Aluminum Rod Tourniquet

1. Effective Control of Bleeding

   - In the event of severe limb bleeding emergencies, like arterial rupture bleeding, the aluminum rod tourniquet can swiftly and effectively halt blood flow and decrease blood loss. For instance, in traffic accident sites, workplace accidents, or outdoor adventure injuries, the timely application of the aluminum rod tourniquet can provide precious rescue time for the patient and lower the risk of shock or even death due to massive blood loss.

2. Convenience for On - site First Aid Operations

   - The aluminum rod tourniquet is relatively light and easy to carry, making it suitable for various first - aid scenarios, including the wilderness and sports arenas. Moreover, its operation method is relatively straightforward and can be learned by those who have received basic first - aid training. Compared to some complex hemostasis devices, it can be quickly utilized in emergency situations without the need for complicated installation or preparation procedures.

3. Provision of Stable Hemostasis Pressure

   - The aluminum rod's material allows it to provide relatively stable pressure once the tourniquet is tightened, thereby maintaining the hemostatic effect. In contrast to some simple rope tourniquets, the aluminum rod tourniquet is less likely to loosen due to improper binding or during the patient's movement. This ensures the reliability of hemostasis and reduces the occurrence of repeated bleeding caused by a loose tourniquet.