My first aid training consists of Red Cross First Aid/CPR/AED. As a Boy Scout and in high school I have learned first aid and CPR many times over but this was 15 yeas ago so last year took the Red Cross First Aid/CPR/AED course. I created a first aid kit that contanied gauze roller bandages, medical tape, a triangle bandage, cpr barrier, gloves, as well as band-aids and common OTC medications (Tylenol, ibuprofen, aspirin, benadryl).
More recently I have been reading about IFAK/Blowout Kits. The four basic parts of these seem to be a Tourniquet, Emergency/Pressure bandage, QuikClot Gauze and gloves.
Re-reading the Red Cross First Aid manual I came across this about tourniquets
Then the manual goes onto describe the application of the tourniquet.In most areas, application of a tourniquet is considered to be a skill at the emergency medical technician (EMT) level or higher and requires proper training.
Similarly the manual addresses hemostatic agents:
From my own research specifically relating to the QuikClot branded hemostatic agents the first generation powder presents specific risks such as burns, trouble cleaning the wound, and irritation of eyes. However based off what I have read about so far with the third generation gauze it is not prone to these issues and can be used in place of traditional gauze to help stop bleeding. Reading and watching some of the documentation about QuikClot gauze use I have notice they emphasize packing the gauze into the wound vs the Red Cross First Aid guidelines of covering the wound.Hemostatic agents generally are substances that speed clot formation by absorbing the excess moisture caused by the bleeding. Hemostatic agents are found in a variety of forms, including treated sponge or gauze pads and powder or granular forms. The powder or granular forms are poured directly on the bleeding vessel, then other hemostatic agents, such as gauze pads, are used in conjunction with direct pressure. Over-the-counter versions of hemostatic bandages are available in addition to hemostatic agents intended for use by professional rescuers. Some are more effective than others. However, because some types present a risk of further injury or tissue damage, the routine use of hemostatic agents in first aid settings is not recommended.
My question is do I need specific professional training in a tourniquet or QuikClot gauze to be able to use them properly or will the provided packaging instructions and my own research and training be sufficient to use them properly? Also what type of liability could I run into for using them on a third party without specific training?
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