Frequently Asked Questions About the X-Force® Tourniquet

Q1. What is the X-Force Tourniquet used for?
The X-Force Tourniquet is designed to help control severe limb bleeding in emergencies when direct pressure is not enough. It is intended for use on arms and legs and should be applied as part of recognized bleeding-control protocols.

Q2. Who can use the X-Force Tourniquet?
The X-Force TQ is designed so that civilians, first responders, law enforcement, and medical professionals can all learn to use it. We strongly recommend hands-on training with a qualified instructor before using any tourniquet in a real emergency.

Q3. Do I need training before using a tourniquet?
Yes. While the X-Force TQ is designed to be intuitive, all tourniquets should be used by someone who has received proper bleeding-control or Stop the Bleed® training. Training helps you recognize when a tourniquet is needed and how to apply it safely and effectively.

Q4. Can the X-Force Tourniquet be used on children?
The X-Force TQ may be used on pediatric patients at the discretion of trained providers, following local protocols and medical direction. Limb size, clinical condition, and provider training all matter. Always follow your agency’s guidelines or consult medical control.

Q5. Is the X-Force Tourniquet latex-free and single use?
The X-Force Tourniquet is manufactured without natural rubber latex. It is intended for single-patient use in real emergencies. Devices used in training should not be reused on patients in the field.

Q6. How long can a tourniquet stay on?
The decision on how long to leave a tourniquet in place belongs to medical professionals and depends on the patient’s condition and transport time. Current trauma care guidelines emphasize controlling life-threatening hemorrhage first, then converting or removing the tourniquet only when appropriate at a higher level of care.

Q7. Can I carry an X-Force Tourniquet every day?
Many people choose to carry a tourniquet in vehicles, workplaces, range bags, and everyday carry kits. You are responsible for complying with any local policies or regulations. The X-Force TQ is compact and designed to be part of personal or organizational bleeding-control readiness.

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X-Force® Tourniquet Data & Research – FAQ

Q1. Has the X-Force Tourniquet been studied?
Yes. The X-Force Tourniquet has been evaluated in independent simulation-based research that compared application speed and performance to a standard windlass-style tourniquet. The study focused on how quickly and reliably users could achieve effective hemorrhage control.

Q2. Who conducted the research on the X-Force Tourniquet?
The research was performed by independent medical researchers using standardized testing protocols in a controlled training environment. It was not a self-published company white paper.

Q3. Where can I read the X-Force study?
A preprint of the research has been hosted on medRxiv, a medical preprint server. You can access the study through the “Study Link” button on our home page or by visiting the Data section of this site and following the external link.

Q4. Does the study mean I should change my protocols?
No. Research findings are one part of a larger evidence picture. Agencies and providers should follow their existing medical direction, local protocols, and trauma-system guidelines when choosing or deploying any tourniquet.

Q5. Is X-Force meant to replace other tourniquets like CAT or SOF-T?
The X-Force Tourniquet is designed as an alternative that emphasizes rapid tightening and controlled conversion to a pressure dressing. Agencies may evaluate X-Force alongside other options such as CAT, SOF-T, or SAM XT and make purchasing decisions based on training needs, protocols, and available evidence.