What does TQ mean in PHYSIOLOGY

A tourniquet is a device used to compress an artery or vein and limit the flow of blood. It is typically made from a bandage or strap that is wrapped around the limb and tightened using a stick to apply pressure. Tourniquets are often used in emergency situations to control severe bleeding.

There are two main types of tourniquets – manual and auto-tourniquets. Manual tourniquets are operated by hand and use mechanical advantage to tighten the bandage. Auto-tourniquets are powered by either gas or electric systems, allowing for more precise application of pressure than a manual tourniquet can provide.

A tourniquet should be used when other methods of applying direct pressure have been unsuccessful at controlling bleeding, such as in major trauma cases where an artery has been severed. In these cases, applying direct pressure with the hands or cloth will not be effective, so using a tourniquet can save someone's life. Generally speaking, it's best to seek medical attention as soon as possible if you find yourself in an emergency situation with excessive bleeding.

Firstly, locate the position on your arm or leg where the bleeding is most severe. Make sure that it will not interfere with major nerves or joints before applying it – this could cause further injury if not done correctly! Once located, wrap the bandage around two to three times over the affected area before securing it in place with either clips or knots (depending on what type of tourniquet you’re using). Keep checking regularly for signs of increased or decreased pulse and temperature, as well as any excessive discomfort experienced by the patient - these may indicate incorrect application of the tourniquet.

Yes – leaving a tourniquet on for too long can lead to serious complications such as damage to surrounding tissue due to restricted blood flow. Therefore, it is important only to keep them in place for 10 minutes at most before releasing and re-applying if necessary. If you are unsure whether or not you need to keep it in place longer than 10 minutes then please consult medical advice immediately.

After removing a tounriquet it's important to monitor both the limb which has had its circulation interrupted and any adjacent limbs for signs of tissue damage including numbness, discoloration, swelling and impaired mobility. Pressure dressings should also be applied immediately once removed in order to reduce further risk of infection from exposure.