Tourniquet
A tourniquet (also called a tourniquet , (venous) congestion tape, or (venous) tourniquet ) is a medical aid that can be used to puncture peripheral veins . (English tourniquet ; in German this term describes the complete ligation of the artery to stop bleeding, see tourniquet .)
Working principle
The tourniquet exerts pressure on superficial veins of an extremity in the area of its application and thus reduces the flow of blood through these vessels . A venous "blood congestion" arises, which causes these vessels to temporarily increase in size. The veins can now be palpated and it is easier to find a suitable puncture site (for taking blood or for placing a PVC ).
application
The tourniquet is placed around the extremity on which the venipuncture is to be performed, approx. 5 cm proximal to the puncture site. Depending on the model used (with or without a metal or plastic connector), the tourniquet is closed or secured with a knot that can be detached with one hand. The pressure exerted by the tourniquet does not affect the arterial blood flow , but only the superficial veins .
material
Simple tourniquets consist of a rubber tube or a rubber band. Modern tourniquets, on the other hand, consist of an approx. 2.5 cm wide, elastic textile band that is fitted with a metal or plastic plug connection and can be loosened and opened with one hand.
For reasons of hygiene , some tourniquets can be washed with the 90 ° C wash . However, many are also resistant to conventional disinfectants . Some tourniquets are autoclavable , and disposable products are also available on the market to prevent cross-infection between patients .
etymology
The term tourniquet is derived from the rubber hose used in the past and the use of its stowage function. This term is still common today, although most tourniquets are usually no longer tubes, but flat ligaments.
