What is the step after tightening the windlass in the CAT tourniquet sequence?

• A. Mark time on forehead
• B. Secure windlass
• C. Position CAT 2-inches above injury
• D. Tighten windlass

Answer: (B)

Securing the windlass is the next step because once you’ve tightened it to control bleeding, you must lock the windlass in place so it cannot loosen during transport or movement. This keeps the tourniquet’s pressure stable and ensures ongoing hemorrhage control. The CAT is typically placed above the injury earlier, and tightening stops the bleed; securing the windlass then prevents any back‑slippage. Marking the time of application is done to document when the tourniquet was applied, but the immediate action right after tightening is to secure the windlass.