Final answer:
After confirming life-threatening bleeding from an amputated arm, an EMT should apply a tourniquet 2-3 inches above the wound, making sure not to place it over a joint. A wide bandage is preferable, and the tourniquet should be covered with a sterile bandage if available. Improvised tools such as rope should be avoided due to potential tissue damage.
Step-by-step explanation:
When applying a tourniquet to an amputated arm, an EMT should follow specific guidelines to ensure effective bleeding control while minimizing further harm to the patient. The correct steps are as follows:
- Avoid applying the tourniquet over a joint: Joints have uneven surfaces which can make the tourniquet less effective, and could lead to additional injury. Position the tourniquet 2-3 inches above the amputation, but not over a joint.
- Use a wide bandage, if available, as narrow bandages can cause more tissue damage due to pressure concentration.
- Cover the tourniquet with a sterile bandage if one is available, once the tourniquet has been secured. This can help to prevent contamination and infection.
- Avoid using improvised tools such as rope unless no proper tourniquet is available, as they can cause unnecessary damage to tissue and nerves. Use a commercial tourniquet or a bandage that is at least one inch wide to distribute pressure more evenly and reduce the risk of tissue damage.
Remember, the primary purpose of a tourniquet is to stop life-threatening bleeding and should be used as a last resort when direct pressure and elevation are not sufficiently controlling the hemorrhage.