Effect of Uniform Design on the Speed of Combat Tourniquet Application: A Simulation Study

Abstract

The closure system of pockets on the combat uniform might influence the time taken to apply a tourniquet. Regular training might also reduce the time taken to apply a tourniquet effectively.

An Evaluation Concerning Tourniquets Application in a Simulated Tactical Environment

“…Uniforms equipped with special pockets for quick and uncomplicated access to the stasis significantly reduces the time required for self-use. [16,17] The tourniquet was used only after other methods of bleeding control failed. It presented tourniquet application when providing assistance to a soldier in the danger zone even when under fire.…”

Tourniquet Training Program Assessed by a New Performance Score

“…In the tactical tourniquet training programs, soldiers are trained to both pre-position and prepare. Higgs, et al have demonstrated that access modalities of the tourniquet might influence the time taken to apply it 14 . This study compared the differences in CAT placement time between American and Australian soldiers.…”

“…, 11 , 19 , 24 , 25 To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to precisely highlight the influence of such a long delay on the learning of the tourniquet’s use. This notion has been suggested by the work of Higgs, et al 14 In addition to measuring the tourniquet “hands-on” time of the American and Australian soldiers, the authors also measured the time of tourniquet application. This study was carried out in simulation, in the theater of military operations.…”

“…, 14 – 16 Finally, to increase the speed of the tourniquet placement, it is important to consider the device access. One study has shown that the manner of storing the tourniquet affects the catching time 14 . Thus, criteria pre-positioning and preparation were considered as described above and rated each criterion at one or zero points.…”

“…13 Based on published studies about tourniquet performance, a total placement time shorter than 40 seconds was considered as "ideal" and rated at two points, comprised between 40 to 80 seconds as "acceptable" and rated at one point, and insufficient longer than 80 seconds as "insufficient" and rated at zero points. 10,[14][15][16] Finally, to increase the speed of the tourniquet placement, it is important to consider the device access. One study has shown that the manner of storing the tourniquet affects the catching time.…”