Pneumatic antishock trousers

While pneumatic antishock trousers are a useful adjunct for the initial management of hypotension, they do not replace, but can augment, fluid replacement and other resuscitative procedures. They can be applied quickly and are relatively safe when used in the manner recommended. They must not be used in a patient with congestive heart failure. Finally, it is imperative that they are not removed suddenly from the hypovolemic, hypotensive patient.