Tourniquet Training Program Assessed by a New Performance Score

Abstract

AbstractIntroductionApplication of a tourniquet is the cornerstone in management of combat-related extremity hemorrhages. Continuous and appropriate training is required to use tourniquets correctly.HypothesisThe aim of this study was to analyze the impact of a refresher training session, conducted directly in the theater of military operations, on the performance of tourniquet use.MethodsDuring their deployment (October 2015-April 2016) in the Central African Republic, a first simulation session evaluated soldiers from two combats platoons for the application of the SOFFT (Special Operation Forces Tactical Tourniquet; Tactical Medical Solutions; Anderson, South California USA) tourniquet. After randomization, a R (+) group underwent a refresher training session, while a R (−) group did not. Two months later, a second simulation session was conducted for both groups: R (+) and R (−). A dedicated score (one to seven points), including delay and effectiveness, evaluated the soldiers’ performance for tourniquet application.ResultsTwenty-six subjects were included in the R (+) group and 24 in the R (−) group. Between the two assessments, the score improved for 61.5% of subjects of the R (+) group and 37.5% subjects of the R (−) group (P=.09). More particularly, the performance score increased from 4.2 (SD=1.4) to 5.5 (SD=0.9; P=.002) in subjects of the R (+) group whose last training for tourniquet application was over six months prior.ConclusionA refresher tourniquet training session, conducted directly in a combat zone, is especially effective for soldiers whose last training session was over six months prior. A dedicated score can assess appropriately the performance of tourniquet training.MartinezT, DuronS, SchaalJV, BaudoinY, BarbierO, DabanJL, BoutonnetM, AussetS, PasquierP. Tourniquet training program assessed by a new performance score. Prehosp Disaster Med. 2018;33(5):519–525.