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Tourniquet application in time-critical aquatic emergencies on a moving rescue water craft (RWC): Can speed and precision coexist?

  • 0REMOSS Research Group, International Drowning Research Alliance-IDRA (Spain), Faculty of Education and Sport Sciences, Universidade de Vigo, Spain.
The American Journal of Emergency Medicine +

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June 23, 2024

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June 23, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Lifeguards can effectively place tourniquets on a Rescue Water Craft (RWC) at speed. While slightly slower than on land, the technique remains feasible and well-executed for emergency bleeding control.

Area Of Science

  • Emergency Medicine
  • Aquatic Safety
  • Trauma Care

Background

  • Lifeguards are primary responders to aquatic incidents, often involving massive bleeding.
  • Rescue Water Crafts (RWCs) are essential tools for lifeguards in rapid rescue operations.
  • Tourniquet application is critical for managing severe hemorrhage in pre-hospital settings.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To evaluate the feasibility, time, and technique of tourniquet application by lifeguards on a RWC navigating at speed.
  • To compare tourniquet application on a moving RWC versus on land.

Main Methods

  • A randomized crossover study involving 44 certified lifeguards experienced in RWC operations and bleeding management.
  • Participants performed two tourniquet (CAT) placement tests: Beach-Tourniquet (B-TQ) on land and Rescue Water Craft-Tourniquet (RWC-TQ) on an RWC at 20 knots.
  • Direct observation by an expert instructor using a checklist evaluated steps and timing of correct application.

Main Results

  • Tourniquet placement on a moving RWC (RWC-TQ) was significantly slower by an average of 11 seconds compared to land placement (B-TQ).
  • Higher success rates for B-TQ compared to RWC-TQ were observed in wound distance accuracy, band adjustment, radial pulse check, and time reporting.
  • Despite differences, the study found tourniquet placement on an RWC at 20 knots to be feasible and technically well-executed.

Conclusions

  • Tourniquet application on a RWC navigating at 20 knots is a feasible emergency procedure for lifeguards.
  • While slightly less precise and slower than on land, the technique is effective for managing massive bleeding in aquatic rescue scenarios.
  • This study supports the continued use and training of lifeguards in rapid tourniquet application during RWC operations.

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