First Aid [FM 4-25.11] Flashcards
(25 cards)
What is the primary goal of Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC)?
To provide effective care for casualties in a combat environment while minimizing the risk to the casualty and the care provider.
What are the three phases of TCCC?
Care Under Fire, Tactical Field Care, and Tactical Evacuation Care.
What should be done during the ‘Care Under Fire’ phase?
Return fire as necessary, take cover, and address life-threatening bleeding with a tourniquet if possible, all while under fire.
What is the most important action during the Care Under Fire phase?
Stop any life-threatening bleeding, typically with a tourniquet.
What are the steps in the Tactical Field Care phase?
Assess the casualty, manage the airway, control bleeding, prevent shock, and treat injuries in priority order.
How should a casualty’s airway be managed in the Tactical Field Care phase?
Ensure the airway is clear; use the head-tilt, chin-lift or jaw-thrust maneuver to open the airway, and insert an NPA or OPA if necessary.
When should a tourniquet be applied?
When there is severe, life-threatening extremity bleeding that cannot be controlled by direct pressure.
What is the recommended method for applying a tourniquet?
Apply the tourniquet 2-3 inches above the wound, tighten until the bleeding stops, and note the time it was applied.
What is the key consideration when treating a casualty with a suspected pneumothorax?
Decompress the chest using a needle thoracostomy if necessary, and monitor for signs of tension pneumothorax.
How should you treat a casualty with a tension pneumothorax?
Perform a needle thoracostomy at the second intercostal space, midclavicular line, to relieve the pressure.
What is the recommended treatment for hemorrhagic shock in TCCC?
Control bleeding, administer IV fluids (if available), and treat with a hemostatic dressing if needed.
What are some signs of shock to watch for during TCCC?
Rapid, weak pulse; low blood pressure; cool, clammy skin; rapid breathing; and altered mental status.
What is the purpose of the ‘MARCH’ acronym in TCCC?
MARCH stands for Massive hemorrhage, Airway, Respiration, Circulation, and Hypothermia. It is used to prioritize treatment.
How should you manage a casualty with an open chest wound?
Seal the wound with an airtight dressing to prevent air from being sucked into the chest, then monitor for signs of tension pneumothorax.
How should you treat a casualty with a head injury?
Maintain C-spine control, monitor the airway, and be prepared to manage seizures and airway compromise.
When should you consider using an intraosseous (IO) needle for fluid administration?
When an IV cannot be established, particularly in cases of hypovolemic shock or severe trauma.
What should be done if a casualty is conscious but cannot breathe effectively?
Ensure the airway is open and assist with ventilation if necessary; consider using an NPA or OPA if needed.
What is the role of a combat medic during the Tactical Evacuation Care phase?
Continue care as the casualty is evacuated to a higher medical echelon, managing pain, bleeding, and other injuries.
What pain management options are available during TCCC?
Administer oral or IV analgesics, such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, morphine, or fentanyl, based on the casualty’s condition and available medications.
How should you handle a casualty with a suspected pelvic fracture?
Stabilize the pelvis using a pelvic binder or improvised method to reduce bleeding and provide pain relief.
What is the priority in TCCC when dealing with multiple casualties?
Use triage principles to prioritize casualties for treatment based on the severity of their injuries.
What is the importance of preventing hypothermia in combat casualties?
Hypothermia can exacerbate shock and decrease the body’s ability to clot, making it critical to keep the casualty warm and dry.
What should be done if a casualty is exposed to a chemical agent in the combat environment?
Decontaminate the casualty immediately, remove contaminated clothing, and treat based on the type of exposure (e.g., antidotes for nerve agents).
How should a casualty be evacuated from the battlefield?
Use a litter or other appropriate method, ensuring that the casualty is stabilized and secured for transport, while continuing medical care.
