Combat Application Tourniquet (CAT) 101:
We all hope that we’re never in an unforeseen emergency situation in which we can’t control bleeding without outside help. That doesn’t mean, however, that we shouldn’t be prepared for the worst. Having a state-of-the-art tourniquet on hand to control bleeding could mean saved lives.
Every second counts when an emergency situation presents itself, which is why School Safety Solution recommends the Combat Application Tourniquet. Are you building a school or work safety kit and interested in learning more about the best tourniquets on the market? Read on to learn more about the Combat Application Tourniquet from the safety experts at School Safety Solution.
What is a Combat Application Tourniquet (CAT)?
A tourniquet is a device that can be used in the event of an emergency to stop the flow of blood. It works by applying pressure to a limb or extremity. The CAT Combat Application Torniquet is the official tourniquet of the U.S. Army. This particular tourniquet is one that civilians can trust as well, which is why it’s recommended and sold by the safety experts at School Safety Solution.
The CAT is tried and true: it has been proven to be 100% effective in occluding blood flow in both upper and lower extremities by the U.S. Army’s Institute of Surgical Research. In fact, tests have proven that the CAT is able to completely stop the blood flow from an extremity in the event of a traumatic wound – even one with significant hemorrhage.
Features of the CAT Tourniquet:
- Awarded as one of the “Top 10 Greatest Inventions” by the U.S. Army
- Official Tourniquet of the U.S. Army
- Used by both conventional and Special Operation forces
- Proven to be 100% effective in occluding blood flow in both upper & lower extremities by the U.S. Army’s Institute of Surgical Research
- True, one-handed application tourniquet
- Quickly controls life-threatening extremity bleeding
- Recommended by the Committee on Tactical Combat Casualty Care
- Designed to perform in all weather conditions
- Small and cost-effective
- Simplified training with single protocol directions for all applications
- True evenly distributed circumferential pressure
How do I Apply a CAT Tourniquet?
The application of a CAT tourniquet is something that will hopefully bring knowledge that you will never need to draw upon; however, everyone should be prepared in the event of an emergency.
Step 1: Become familiar with the CAT tourniquet. This should occur before you are placed in an emergency situation. Understand the different parts of the CAT tourniquet, such as the buckle, rod, clip, strap, and tape band.
Step 2: Place the CAT. The injured limb or extremity is placed through the loop of the tape band to be secured. The CAT tourniquet should be placed roughly 2-4 inches above the injury in order to stop the bleeding.
Step 3: Tighten the CAT. The tape band’s Velcro will help secure the placement of the tourniquet on the limb.
Step 4: Twist the rod and insert it into the clip. Make sure to twist the rod no more than three times to avoid breaking it. Once the rod has been inserted into the clip, thread the excess tape band through the clip, securing it with the strap.
If the bleeding has not stopped, apply a second CAT tourniquet 2-4 inches above the first CAT tourniquet.
Do CAT Tourniquets Expire? / Can you Reuse CAT Tourniquets?
No, your CAT tourniquet will likely not expire; however, in the event that it does need to be used (which will hopefully never occur), the tourniquet should be replaced. If the tourniquet is stored in extreme heated conditions or direct sunlight, the tourniquet may expire more quickly – however, this is not a concern for civilian uses.
School Safety Solution: Your Partner for Emergency Preparedness.
At School Safety Solution, our number one priority is ensuring the highest level of security and safety possible exists on your work and school campuses. That’s why we founded School Safety Solution: to keep you safe by providing reliable, high-quality, and life-saving equipment. We understand that a minute can change everything. Our safety solutions are proactive in nature and simple to use in the event of a disaster. If you would like to review your school or office’s safety and security equipment, bleeding control training of your school office staff, or any other safety consideration, we would love to assist you. You can call our team of safety experts any time at 888.733.0406 or send us an email at info@schoolsafetysolution.com for more information.
