Prevention of tourniquet paralysis during the use of Pneumatic tourniquets

SummaryThis article focuses on the prevention of tourniquet paralysis that may arise as a result of use of modern pneumatic tourniquets. Tourniquet paralysis is an injury caused by pneumatic tourniquet resulting from mechanical pressure on the nerves and anoxia. The injury can range from paraesthesia to complete paralysis. The motor functions are usually affected with sparing of sensation. High risk groups for tourniquet paralysis include older patients, hypertensive, obese patients and those with atherosclerosis. Adequate knowledge of the complications that can occur while using tourniquets is important to enable nurses to prevent and detect them early.