a. Select the Tourniquet Site.

Select a site that is two to four inches above the edge of the wound, but not over a joint or at the edge of the field dressing. If the wound is just below the elbow or knee, select a site above the joint and as close to the joint as possible.

b. Apply Padding.

Place padding around the limb where the tourniquet will be applied. If the casualty’s shirt sleeve or trouser leg is used as padding, smooth the shirt or trouser material and apply the tourniquet band over the clothing.

c. Apply the Tourniquet Band.

Place the tourniquet band material around the tourniquet site. If possible, wrap the tourniquet band around the limb twice.

d. Apply the Rigid Object.

(1) Tie the band with a half knot (figure 2-24 A). This is the same as the first part of tying a shoe.

(2) Place the rigid object on top of the half-knot (figure 2-24 B).

(3) Tie a full knot over the rigid object (figure 2-24 C).

e. Tighten the Tourniquet.

Twist the rigid object either clockwise or counterclockwise (figure 2-24 D) until the tourniquet is tight enough to stop arterial blood flow beneath the band.