Used for the control of massive bleeding from a limb wound. The CAT is the commonest tourniquet in use.

To apply a CAT tourniquet

• apply as close to the wound as possible but not on wound edges
• ensure the strap is fed through both loops of the buckle and pull tight
• turn the windlass until bleeding stops
• secure the windlass in the windlass holder
• if bleeding is not controlled apply a second tourniquet proximally on the single boned portion of the limb
• record time on tourniquet and in notes
• dress wound appropriately and elevate limb if practical
• if a trial release is attempted, this should be performed by one turn of the windlass at a time with short intervals to assess for bleeding