Amputations and avulsions may require control of bleeding in which case you would use direct pressure or pressure points. Use a tourniquet only as a last resort for severe life-threatening bleeding as characterized by hypotension.

Wrap amputated parts in dry, sterile dressings and place the amputated part in a watertight container. Then place the watertight container in a second container that should be placed on ice.

Emergency Care for an Amputated Part

Do not submerge the amputated part in water or place directly on ice. Do not use dry ice to cool a severed part; however, ice or chemical cold packs are acceptable.

Rapid transport of the patient and the severed part is critical to the success of re-implantation. If transport is delayed, consider sending the amputated part ahead to be surgically prepared.