(a) If conventional methods of controlling severe bleeding (emergency
bandage, direct pressure, pressure dressing, hemostatic dressing, and so forth) do not
control the bleeding on an extremity, apply a tourniquet.
(b) If a tourniquet was previously applied, consider changing the
tourniquet to an emergency bandage or pressure dressing to control bleeding. Leave
the tourniquet in place while doing this. Loosen it, but do not remove it. If conventional
methods are not able to control hemorrhage, retighten the tourniquet until bleeding
stops.
NOTE:
By converting the tourniquet to a pressure dressing or controlling the bleeding
by other methods, you may be able to save the limb of the casualty if the
tourniquet has not been in place for 6 hours. If tourniquet has been in place
for more than 6 hours do not remove the tourniquet.
g. Other Wounds. Identify and treat other wounds. Dress all wounds, including
exit wounds. Remember to remove only the minimum of clothing required to expose
and treat injuries. Protect the casualty against the environment (hot and cold
temperatures, and so forth).
h. Fractures. Splint any obvious long bone fractures (see Lesson 6).
i. Combat Pill Pack. Administer pain medications and antibiotics (combat pill
pack) to any soldier wounded in combat. Do not administer your own pack since you
may need them yourself and you have no extra combat pill packs in your aid bag.
NOTE:
Each soldier will be issued a combat pill pack prior to deployment on tactical
missions.
j. Positioning the Casualty.
(1) Usually, you will roll the casualty onto his side and position the casualty's
arms and legs to stabilize him in the recovery position (figure 1-1). This position allows
accumulated blood and mucus to drain from the casualty's mouth instead of choking the
casualty. This is especially important if the casualty is unconscious and you cannot stay
with him.
IS0877
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