A complete or partial amputation of the limb requires the immediate application of a tourniquet.

Do not attempt to control bleeding with a field dressing, elevation, manual pressure, and/or pressure dressing before applying a tourniquet. If the amputation is incomplete, do not complete the amputation. There is a possibility the limb may still be saved.

a. Locate the Tourniquet Site.

Locate a site for the tourniquet that is two to four inches above the wound (amputation site), but which is not over a joint. If the amputation site is just below the elbow or knee, select a site above the joint and as close to the joint as possible.

b. Apply the Tourniquet.

Apply a Combat Application Tourniquet or an improvised tourniquet. Make sure arterial bleeding below the tourniquet has ceased.

c. Mark the Casualty.

Mark the casualty’s forehead to indicate the application of a tourniquet (paragraph 2-19).