In TCCC, which method is used to control severe external hemorrhage?

In Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC), the application of a tourniquet above the injury site is a critical method for controlling severe external hemorrhage. This technique is specifically designed to occlude blood flow to a limb, significantly reducing the risk of exsanguination in mass bleeding scenarios. Tourniquets are particularly effective when direct pressure is insufficient to control hemorrhage, especially in cases of traumatic limb injuries where arterial bleeding is present.

Placing the tourniquet above the injury site ensures that major arteries supplying blood to the affected area are compressed, facilitating immediate blood flow control. This method is a definitive action in acute scenarios such as combat or trauma situations, where the speed of intervention can be a determinant of survival.

While other methods like direct pressure, limb elevation, or cold compress applications can be useful in certain contexts, they may not always provide the rapid and effective control required in cases of severe bleeding. Tourniquets have evolved over time and are recognized as a vital tool in the management of catastrophic hemorrhage, underscoring their importance in TCCC protocols.