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Understanding and Optimizing Tourniquet Use During Extremity Surgery
Author(s) -
Jensen Jacob,
Hicks Rodney W.,
Labovitz Jonathan
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
aorn journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.222
H-Index - 43
eISSN - 1878-0369
pISSN - 0001-2092
DOI - 10.1002/aorn.12579
Subject(s) - tourniquet , medicine , perioperative , perioperative nursing , intensive care medicine , surgery
Tourniquet use during extremity surgery is commonplace and a relatively safe practice. The surgical team's knowledge of the patient history, proper assessment, and indications and contraindications for and risks of tourniquet use can prevent unwanted outcomes. Exploration of these critical areas reinforces perioperative nurses’ awareness and understanding of safe tourniquet use. Additionally, a review of the physiological effect of tourniquets on the skin, the body's response to local compression, the risk of vascular compromise, and the effect of the tourniquet on postoperative pain and swelling provides insight into AORN recommended practice guidelines. This article summarizes the indications and assessments for and risks of tourniquet use for patients during extremity surgery. An understanding of these topics can improve surgical outcomes and promote safe perioperative care.