30 Oct 03

Quik Clot

A glitzy new product called Quik Clot is currently being marketed to physicians and emergency medical personnel. Application of it to a wound is supposed to control bleeding. My physician students warn against its use. At best, it is superfluous. Direct pressure will still be necessary to get bleeding under control, and Quik Clot contributes little or nothing to the process.

Such products were available to surgeons as a powder to sprinkle onto oozing wounds several decades ago. It was a marketing flop. Few used it. Now, it is being resurrected and remarketed.

Just another dubious "miracle gadget" that, in this case, is supposed to substitute for direct pressure and a pressure dressing. Don't waste your time and don't let it take up valuable space in your field kit.

/John