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Traumatic amputation — DipIMC MCQ

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HardTraumaTraumatic amputationDipIMC

A traumatic below-knee amputation continues to bleed briskly despite correctly applied direct pressure. A loose improvised belt is present but has never stopped the bleeding. What is the next haemorrhage-control intervention?

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Correct answer: B — Replace it with a properly applied proximal commercial tourniquet

The best answer is “Replace it with a properly applied proximal commercial tourniquet”. For life-threatening major-limb haemorrhage that persists despite direct pressure, NICE recommends a tourniquet. A loose belt is neither reliable nor a reason to abandon the technique. Apply an approved device proximal to the injury, tighten until bleeding stops, document the time, reassess effectiveness and continue haemostatic resuscitation and rapid transfer.

Reference: NICE NG39, Major trauma: assessment and initial management: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng39/chapter/recommendations