After packing a wound and applying pressure, which action should be performed next?

After packing a wound and applying pressure, which action should be performed next?

• A. Pack wound and old pressure for 3 minutes
• B. Apply pressure bandage
• C. Reassess distal pulse
• D. Slowly release TQ over 1 minute

Answer: (D)

The main idea is how to verify that you’ve achieved stable hemorrhage control after packing and applying pressure. After these steps, slowly releasing the tourniquet over about a minute lets blood flow return and lets you observe whether the bleeding stays controlled and whether distal perfusion remains intact. This gradual release helps you catch any rebleed early and decide if you need to tighten again or take additional measures, all while preparing for evacuation.

The main idea is how to verify that you’ve achieved stable hemorrhage control after packing and applying pressure. After these steps, slowly releasing the tourniquet over about a minute lets blood flow return and lets you observe whether the bleeding stays controlled and whether distal perfusion remains intact. This gradual release helps you catch any rebleed early and decide if you need to tighten again or take additional measures, all while preparing for evacuation.