Over the past several months, I have taught several courses where we integrated a new product, the SWAT Tourniquet, into our courses. Admittedly it is hard for me to adopt new products, especially new ones, since I primarily practice in a remote area. A lot of times, the trusted and time proven device is the way to go. We spend a lot of time talking with our clients about their experience with our products and make recommendations based off the collective experience of our clients and staff. That all said, the simplicity and effectiveness of the SWAT Tourniquet makes it an attractive option, especially when considering that it is extremely economical with no moving pieces.
My initial concern with the device was that it looked hard to self-apply. I gave twelve police officers a five minute lecture and demo with the SWAT Tourniquet and the SOF Tactical Tourniquet. I didn’t see any difference in the ease of self-application or application on a patient. While think that while the SOF is still a standard, the SWAT Tourniquet will rapidly become part of every operator’s and medic’s kit as well as expedition medical kits as well a critical item on a patrol officer’s belt (it fits in the larger glove pouches). It is a light weight, economical answer to bleeding control anywhere. Nice work Dr. Blankenship.
