CMAST Student Reference Complete

Combat Medic Advanced
Skills Training
(CMAST)
300-91W1/2/3/4(91WY2)(T) 91W Transition Course, Phase 2
Student Reference
November 2005
Combat Medic Advanced Skills Training (CMAST)
Table of Contents
Page
Lessons
A. C191W1TC/1 CMAST: Point of Wounding Care 1
B. C191W2TC/1 CMAST: Tactical Combat Casualty Care 5
C. C191W3TC/1 CMAST: Advanced Airway Techniques 15
D. C191W4TC/1 CMAST: Chest Trauma Management 21
E. C191W5TC/1 CMAST: Hemorrhage Control 27
F. C191W6TC/1 CMAST: Hypovolemic Shock Management 37
G. C191W7TC/1 CMAST: Battlefield Casualty Evacuation 45
H. C191W8TC/1 CMAST: Casualty Triage 49
I. C191W9TC/1 CMAST: International Humanitarian Law and the Geneva

Conventions 57
J. C191WTCL/1 CMAST: Combat Trauma Lanes 65
Practical Exercises
DCMT10003 Insert an Oropharyngeal Airway (OPA) PE-1
DCMT10004 Insert a Nasopharyngeal Airway (NPA) PE-5
DCMT10009 Insert a Combitube PE-9
DCMT10010 Perform an Emergency Surgical Cricothyrotomy PE-15
DCMT10024 Manage an Open Pneumothorax PE-19
DCMT10015 Decompress the Chest: Needle Decompression PE-23
DCMT10025 Control Bleeding using an Emergency Trauma Dressing (ETD) PE-27
DCMT10026 Control Bleeding using an Improvised Tourniquet PE-31
DCMT10027 Control Bleeding using a Combat Application Tourniquet (C-A-T) PE-35
DCMT10028 Control Bleeding using a HemCon Chitosan Bandage PE-39
DCMT10029 Control Bleeding using QuickClot Hemostatic Powder PE-43
DCMT10019 Initiate an Intravenous Infusion PE-47
DCMT10030 Initiate a Saline Lock PE-53
Department of Combat Medic Training i

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DCMT10031 Initiate an Intraosseous Infusion (F.A.S.T.1) PE-59
DCMT10033 Hypotensive Resuscitation PE-63
DCMT10032 Package a Casualty for Transport PE-69
DCMY10034 Perform Casualty Triage PE-73
Glossary Glossary-1
Department of Combat Medic Training ii

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1 November 2005
The Combat Medic Advanced Skills Training (CMAST) course was developed to provide the soldier
medic with an overview of the stark contrast between garrison and combat trauma care. The foundation
of CMAST is the concept and principles of Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TC-3). CMAST takes the
basic knowledge and skills the soldier medic attained in the Emergency Medical Technician - Basic (EMT-
B) course and addresses the many differences when applying them to casualties on the battlefield. The
management of the airway, chest trauma, hemorrhage, and hypovolemic shock of the battlefield casualty
are all addressed. Triage and evacuation, as well as the treatment of detainees under international law
are also discussed. This course contains a 25-question pre-course self-assessment examination and
culminates in several practical examinations and a 50-question written examination.
A. C191W1TC/1 CMAST: Point of Wounding Care

Given a casualty or casualties with significant life-threatening injuries under simulated combat conditions
and an M-5 medical aid bag stocked with a basic load, perform appropriate trauma assessment and
emergency care for the casualty at the point of wounding. Perform all measures IAW the concepts and
principles of Tactical Combat Casualty Care and the Combat Medic Advanced Skills Training (CMAST)
program.
Introduction
It is a sad but basic fact that the majority of seriously wounded soldiers on the battlefield will die before
they reach definitive medical care. It is the responsibility of every soldier, not just the soldier medic, to
care for their wounded comrades. With limited medical care providers av ailable, it becomes imperative
that all soldiers know how to treat critically injured soldiers and maintain them before more qualified
medical personnel arrive.
1. Review the Causes of Death on the Battlefield
a. Soldiers die on the battlefield before they reach definitive medical care. It is the responsibility of
all soldiers on the battlefield, not just the soldier medic, to provide care at the point of wounding.
b. Review the causes of death on the battlefield.
(1) Penetrating head trauma: most cases are not survivable; triage this casualty as expectant.
(2) Uncorrectable penetrating torso trauma: has significantly decreased due to body armor, but still
unprotected areas in the axilla leave opportunity for penetrating torso wounds. Many cases are
not survivable.
(3) Potentially correctable torso trauma: penetrating wounds to the abdomen without vascular
involvement may be survivable for several hours.
(4) Exsanguination from extremity wounds: the leading cause of preventable death on the
battlefield is hemorrhage from extremity wounds. Extremity wounds account for > 60% of all
wounds on today’s battlefield.
(5) Mutilating blast trauma: horrific wounds that are not usually survivable. Improvised explosive
devices (IEDs) are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in OIF today.
(6) Tension pneumothorax: second leading cause of preventable death on the battlefield.
Penetrating chest trauma still exists, even with body armor and can become rapidly fatal
without medical intervention.
(7) Airway compromise: third leading cause of preventable death. While this is a very small
percentage of injuries (most cases are due to maxillofacial trauma), these injuries need
immediate attention to save these soldier's lives.
(8) The majority of wounds in combat are caused by penetrating trauma. This data remains
relatively unchanged from WWI.
(a) Gunshot wounds (GSW) - 23%.
Department of Combat Medic Training 1

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1 November 2005
(b) Shrapnel wounds - 62%.
(c) Blast injuries - 3%.
(9) The distribution of combat wounds demonstrate that body armor protects our tor so very well but
leaves our extremities vulnerable to significant wounds. Over 60% of all wounds are extremity
wounds.
(10) The majority of wounds in the civilian sector are caused by blunt trauma.
(a) Blunt trauma - 70%; primarily from motor vehicle crashes (MVCs).
(b) Penetrating trauma - 21%.
(11) The preventable causes of death in combat are:
(a) Extremity hemorrhage.
(b) Tension pneumothorax.
(c) Airway compromise.
(12) Pre-hospital care on the battlefield needs to shift focus from the medic-centric model to the
warfighter-centric model. This allows every soldier to treat preventable causes of death where
they become a combat multiplier and increases the unit’s survivability.
2. Levels of Care on the Battlefield
a. Levels of care on the battlefield.
(1) Self-Aid/Buddy-Aid (SABA): every individual soldier trained to treat the preventable causes of
death.
(2) Combat Lifesaver (CLS): specifically trained soldiers able to provide intermediate levels of
medical care in combat, once again trained to treat the preventable causes of death.
(3) 91W (68W) Health Care Specialist: formally trained combat medic who specializes in the ability
to provide trauma medicine on the battlefield.
b. Specific skill sets for the different levels of care.
(1) SABA: the following are the specific skills required of every soldier to treat the preventable
causes of death, in a tactical environment.
(a) Perform a rapid casualty initial assessment (A-B-Cs).
(b) Control hemorrhage.
(c) Treat penetrating chest trauma.
(d) Maintain airway.
(e) Package casualty for transport.
(2) SABA assessment skills.
(a) Airway.
(b) Breathing.
(c) Circulation.
(3) SABA airway skills.
(a) Nasopharyngeal airway (NPA).
(b) Recovery position: many soldiers will need nothing more that proper positioning. Do not
leave an unconscious casualty on their back.
(4) SABA breathing skills. Place an occlusive dressing over a penetrating chest wound.

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1 November 2005
(5) SABA bleeding skills.
(a) Combat Application Tourniquet (C-A-T).
(b) Emergency Trauma Dressing (ETD).
(6) Current and improved first aid kits.
(a) Current first aid kit consists of an outdated battle dressing in a compass pouch.
(b) The Improved First Aid Kit (IFAK) contains all of the supplies to treat the preventable causes
of death. Currently, every soldier who attends basic training is trained in these skills.
(7) Combat Lifesaver (CLS): the following are the specific skill sets needed to augment the skills of
the individual soldier. Remember, the CLS is a non-medical soldier who has additional training
in life-saving medical skills. The CLS skill sets are almost identical to SABA, with the additional
skills of needle chest decompression for a tension pneumothorax and the ability to establish a
saline lock for fluid resuscitation.
(a) Rapid casualty initial assessment (A-B-Cs).
(b) Control hemorrhage.
(c) Treat penetrating chest trauma.
(d) Maintain an airway.
(e) Package casualty for transport.
(f) Initiate a saline lock and fluid resuscitate a casualty.
(g) Initiate a field medical card (FMC).
(h) Initiate a nine-line MEDEVAC request.
(i) Chest decompression: tension pneumothorax.
(j) Intravenous access (fluids vs. saline lock).
(8) Transport.
(a) SKEDCO litter.
(b) Talon II litter.
(9) 91W Health Care Specialist: the combat medic is the primary care provider in the pre-hospital
setting with additional medical skills and equipment to augment the lower levels of care and
resupply the CLS. They are trained in Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TC-3) principles.
NOTE: The 91W Health Care Specialist becomes the 68W Health Care Specialist on 1 October 2006.
(a) Care Under Fire.
(b) Tactical Field Care.
(c) Combat Casualty Evacuation Care (CASEVAC).
(d) Casualties in combat involve both a medical problem and a tactical problem as well. We
want the best outcome for both the soldier and the mission. Good medicine can sometimes
be bad tactics, and bad tactics can get everyone killed and or cause the mission to fail. This
recognizes an important aspect of battlefield care: performing the right intervention at the
right time. What may be a perfectly correct intervention performed at the wrong time puts the
care provider and their casualty at risk. With limited battlefield medical assets, we cannot
afford to take these risks.
3. Warrior Aid and Litter Kit
a. Improvised explosive devices (IEDs) are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in Iraq
today. Several initiatives ranging from improved armor kits and sandbagging vehicle floors, to

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1 November 2005
improving soldier body armor, to changing tactics, techniques and procedures (TTPs). However,
nothing has been done to improve the medical supplies on vehicles to treat these devastating
injuries.
b. These convoys/patrols may or may not have any medical providers or combat lifesavers available
when the enemy strikes.
c. The need exists for an updated medical kit for vehicles traveling in danger areas.
(1) Positioning this kit on less than every vehicle risks losing the ability if the vehicle it is loaded or
is destroyed.
(2) This kit should consist of a single unit of issue and will include enough medical supplies to care
for two critically injured casualties and a collapsible litter to provide a stable evacuation platform
for one of these casualties.
(3) Warrior Aid and Litter Kit (WALK).
(a) Talon II Litter, 6530-01-504-9051, 1 each.
(b) Litter Carrier, 6530-01-504-9056, 1 each.
(c) Muslin Bandage (cravat), 6510-00-201-1755, 6 each.
(d) Kerlix, 6510-00-058-3047, 4 rolls.
(e) Emergency Trauma Dressing (Israeli dressing), 6510-01-492-2275, 4 each.
(f) Combat Application Tourniquet (C-A-T), 6515-01-521-7976, 2 each.
(g) Petrolatum gauze, 6510-00-202-0800, 2 each.
(h) Nasopharyngeal Airway (NPA), 6515-00-300-2900, 1 each.
(i) Blizzard Wrap Blanket, 6532-01-524-6932, 1 each.
(j) Ace Wrap, 6-inch, 6510-00-935-5823, 2 each.
(k) Catheter, 14-gauge, 6510-01-521-0910, (50s bx), 2/50 each.
(l) Splint, Universal (Sam Splint II), 6515-01-494-1951, 2 each.
(m) Nylon Tape, 6510-00-926-8883 Ro, 2 rolls.
(n) Abdominal Dressing, large, 6510-00-201-7425, 1 each.
NOTE: Total Weight 22 lbs 8 oz with Talon II litter in Carrier; total cube space = 23”x12”x 12”.

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1 November 2005
B. C191W2TC/1 CMAST: Tactical Combat Casualty Care
Given a casualty to be managed under simulated combat conditions and an M-5 medical aid bag stocked
with a basic load, provide tactical medical care for the casualty to include performing an appropriate
trauma assessment and providing emergency trauma management based on the phases of combat care.
Perform all measures IAW the concepts and principles of Tactical Combat Casualty Care and the Combat
Medic Advanced Skills Training (CMAST) program.
Introduction
Today our country is at war. It is likely that you will be called on to deploy to a foreign country and
provide medical care in a combat zone. It is necessary for you to understand the differences between
trauma management in the United States and trauma management in a foreign country during wartime on
the battlefield.
1. Overview of Tactical Combat Casualty Care
a. Medical training for soldier medics is currently based on the principles for Emergency Medical
Technicians (EMTs), Pre-Hospital Trauma Life Support (PHTLS) and Advanced Trauma Life
Support (ATLS). These guidelines provide a standard systematic approach to the management
of a trauma patient. Tactical Combat Casualty Care or "TC-3" has been approved by the
American College of Surgeons and the National Association of EMTs. The three principles of
Tactical Combat Casualty Care are to treat the casualty, prevent additional casualties and
complete the mission.
b. This system works well in the setting of the civilian hospital emergency department; however,
some of these principles may not be appropriate for the combat setting. In this lesson we will
discuss some significant differences in care provided in a combat setting. It is also important to
understand that performing the correct intervention must be performed at the correct time in
combat care. A medically correct intervention performed at the wrong time in combat can lead to
additional casualties.
(1) The pre-hospital phase of care continues to be critically important. Most casualties in combat
are the result of penetrating trauma vs. primarily blunt trauma in the civilian sector.
(2) Up to 90% of combat deaths occur on the battlefield before a casualty reaches a medical
treatment facility (MTF).
(a) Factors influencing combat casualty care include:
1) Enemy fire (may prevent the treatment of casualties and may put you at risk in providing
care under enemy fire).
2) Medical equipment limitations (you only have what you carried in with you in your medical
aid bag).
3) A widely variable evacuation time (in the civilian community evacuation can be under 25
minutes, but in combat it may be delayed for several hours).
4) Tactical considerations (sometimes the mission will take precedence over medical care).
5) Casualty transportation (may or may not be available, air superiority must be achieved
before any air evacuation assets will be deployed; additionally, the tactical situation will
dictate when or if casualty evacuation can occur. In addition, environmental factors may
prevent evacuation assets from reaching your casualty.
2. Stages of Care

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a. In making the transition from civilian emergency care to the tactical setting it is useful in
considering the management of casualties that occur in a combat mission as being divided into
three distinct phases:
(1) "Care Under Fire" is the care rendered by the soldier medic at the scene of the injury while they
and the casualty are still under effective hostile fire. Available medical equipment is limited to
that carried by the individual soldier or the soldier medic in their medical aid bag.
(2) "Tactical Field Care" is the care rendered by the soldier medic once they and the casualty are
no longer under effective hostile fire. It also applies to situations in which an injury has
occurred, but there is no hostile fire. Available medical equipment is still limited to that being
carried into the field by medical personnel. Time to evacuation to an MTF may vary
considerably.
(3) "Combat Casualty Evacuation Care" is the care rendered once the casualty has been picked up
by an aircraft, vehicle or boat. Additional medical personnel and equipment may have been
pre-staged and are available at this stage of casualty management.
3. Care Under Fire
a. Medical personnel's firepower may be essential in obtaining tactical fire superiority. Attention to
suppression of hostile fire may minimize the risk of injury to personnel and minimize additional
injury to previously injured soldiers. The best offense on the battlefield is tactical fire superiority.
The previous examples demonstrated that there is little time available to provide care while under
enemy fire and that fact that it may be more important to suppress enemy fire instead of stopping
to care for casualties. The tactical situation will dictate when and how much care you can
provide. Finally, when a MEDEVAC is requested, the tactical situation may not safely allow the
air asset to respond.
b. Personnel may need to assist in returning fire instead of stopping to care for casualties. This may
include wounded soldiers that are still able to fight.
c. Wounded soldiers who are unable to fight should lay flat and motionless if no cover is available or
move as quickly as possible to any nearby cover.
d. The previous example (slide presentation) depicted a tragic situation. A wounded marine is down
in the street. A colleague attempts to come to his rescue along with a second marine. Enemy
fire continues in the area and the first rescuer is fatally wounded. The second rescuer returns
behind cover. Eventually, after enemy fire is contained, the first wounded marine is rescued but
his initial rescuer dies from his wounds. The point is, when under enemy fire we cannot afford to
rush blindly into a danger area to rescue a fallen comrade; if we do, there may be additional
soldiers wounded or killed attempting to rescue our wounded.
e. Medical personnel are limited and if injured, no other medical personnel will be available until the
time of evacuation during the CASEVAC phase.
f. No immediate management of the airway is necessary at this time due to limited time available
(under enemy fire) and the movement of the casualty to cover. Airway problems typically play a
minimal role in combat casualties. Wounding data from Viet Nam indicates airway problems were
only about 1% of combat casualties, mostly from maxillofacial injuries.
g. Control of hemorrhage is important since injury to a major vessel can result in hypovolemic shock
in a short time frame. Extremity hemorrhage is the leading cause of preventable combat death.
NOTE: Over 2,500 deaths occurred in Viet Nam secondary to hemorrhage from extremity wounds; these
casualties had no other injuries.

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1 November 2005
h. Use of temporary tourniquets to stop the bleeding is essential in these types of casualties. If the
casualty needs to be moved, as is usually the case, a tourniquet is the most reasonable initial
choice to stop major bleeding. Ischemic damage to the limb is rare if the tourniquet is left in place
for less than one (1) hour and tourniquets are often left in place for several hours during surgical
procedures. In addition, the use of a temporary tourniquet may allow the injured soldier to
continue to fight. Both the casualty and the soldier medic are in grave danger while applying the
tourniquet and non-life-threatening bleeding should be ignored until the Tactical Field Care
phase.
i. The need for immediate access to a tourniquet in such situations makes it clear that all soldiers on
combat missions have a suitable tourniquet readily available at a standard location on their battle
gear and be trained in their use.
j. For non-extremity wounds, the use of direct pressure with a HemCon bandage is appropriate to
control life-threatening hemorrhage. Severe bleeding may occur with neck, axillary or groin
injuries. These injuries may not be susceptible to the use of a tourniquet; however, direct
pressure and the use of a hemostatic bandage may be adequate to control this type of bleeding.
k. Penetrating neck injuries do not require C-spine immobilization. Other neck injuries such as falls
over 15 feet, fast roping injuries or MVCs may require C-spine immobilization unless the danger
of hostile fire constitutes a greater threat in the judgment of the soldier medic. Studies have
shown that with penetrating neck injuries being only 1.4% of the injured, few would have
benefited from C-spine immobilization. Adjustable rigid C-Collars should be carried in the soldier
medic's medical aid bag. If rigid C-Collars are not available, a Sam Splint can be used as a field
expedient C-Collar.
l. Litters may not be available for movement of casualties.
(1) Consider alternate methods to move casualties, (ponchos, pole -less litters, SKEDCO or Talon II
litters, discarded doors, dragging, or manual carries).
(2) Smoke, CS and vehicles may act as screens to assist in casualty movement.
NOTE: There were several instances of tanks being used as screens in Iraq to assist with the evacuation
of casualties.
m. Do not attempt to salvage a casualty's rucksack unless it contains items critical to the mission.
Take the casualty's weapon and ammunition if possible to prevent the enemy from using them
against you.
n. Key points.
(1) Return fire as directed or required.
(2) The casualty(s) should also return fire if able.
(3) Direct the casualty to cover and apply self-aid if able.
(4) Try to keep the casualty from sustaining any additional wounds.
(5) Airway management is generally best deferred until the Tactical Field Care phase.
(6) Stop any life-threatening hemorrhage with a tourniquet or a HemCon bandage if applicable.

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4. Tactical Field Care
a. The "Tactical Field Care" phase is distinguished from the "Care Under Fire" phase by having
more time available to provide care and a reduced level of hazard from hostile fire.
b. The time available to render care may be quite variable. In some cases, tactical field care may
consist of rapid treatment of wounds with the expectation of a re-engagement of hostile fire at any
moment. In some circumstances there may be ample time to render whatever care is available in
the field. The time to evacuation may be quite variable from minutes to several hours.
c. If a victim of a blast or penetrating injury is found without a pulse, respirations or other signs of
life, do not attempt CPR. Attempts to resuscitate trauma casualties in arrest have found to be
futile even in the urban setting where the victim is in close proximity to a trauma center. On the
battlefield, the cost of attempting CPR on casualties with what are inevitably fatal injuries will be
measured in additional lives lost as care is withheld from casualties with less severe injuries and
as soldier medics are exposed to additional hazard from hostile fire because of their attempts.
Only in the case of non-traumatic disorders such as hypothermia, near drowning or electrocution,
should CPR be considered. Casualties with an altered level of consciousness should be
disarmed immediately, both weapons and grenades. This provides a safety measure for the care
providers, so when the casualty becomes more awake and alert, they do not mistake the good
guys for the enemy they were recently engaging.
d. Initial assessment consists of airway, breathing and circulation.
e. Airway.
(1) Open the airway with a chin-lift or jaw-thrust maneuver. With unconscious casualties, insert a
nasopharyngeal airway (NPA) or Combitube. Allow a conscious casualty to assume any
position that best protects the airway, to include sitting up. The unconscious casualty should
be placed in the recovery position. Many times positioning alone may be all a casualty needs
to maintain a viable airway. A casualty with maxillofacial trauma should never be evacuated on
a litter lying supine.
(2) An NPA has the advantage of being better tolerated than an oropharyngeal airway (OPA),
should the casualty subsequently regain consciousness, and is less easily dislodged during
casualty transport. If the casualty needs a more advanced airway, the Combitube is the next
recommended choice.
(3) Traditionally the endotracheal tube (ETT) has been the “Gold Standard” for airway support;
however, in combat the ETT has several disadvantages.
(a) Many soldier medics have never performed an endotracheal intubation (skill level 3) on a live
patient or even a cadaver.
(b) ETT entails the use of white-light on the battlefield.
(c) Esophageal intubations are much less likely to be recognized on the battlefield and may
result in fatalities.
(4) One study that examined first-time intubationists trained with manikins alone, noted an initial
success rate of only 42% in the ideal confines of the operating room with paralyzed casualties.
The Combitube is an effective airway designed for blind insertion. It is effective when placed in
either the esophagus or the trachea. A study measuring effective placement of the Combitube
noted it was successfully inserted 71% of the time for a first-line airway adjunct.

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(5) If the casualty is unconscious and has an obstructed airway, and other airway techniques are
not successful, perform a surgical cricothyroidotomy. This may also be the airway of choice if
maxillofacial injuries have disrupted the normal anatomy.
(6) Oxygen is usually not available in this phase. Cylinders of compressed gas and the associated
equipment for supplying the oxygen are too heavy to make their use in the field feasible.
f. Breathing.
(1) Traumatic chest wall defects should be closed with an occlusive dressing without regard to
venting one side of the dressing, as this is difficult to do in a combat setting. You may use an
"Asherman Chest Seal". As long as the care provider has the ability to needle decompress a
possible tension pneumothorax there is no need to tape the occlusive dressing on three sides.
If the ability to needle decompress the chest is not available, the occlusive dressing should only
be taped on three sides to allow a flutter valve effect in the dressing.
(2) Progressive respiratory distress, secondary to a unilateral penetrating chest trauma, should be
considered a tension pneumothorax and decompressed with a 14-gauge needle. The needle
should be placed in the second intercostal space (ICS) along the mid-clavicular line (MCL) and
secured in place. The needle should be placed over the top of the 3rd rib to avoid the
neurovascular bundle that runs along the bottom of each rib. The assessment in this setting
should not rely on such typical signs as breath sounds, tracheal shift and hyperresonance to
percussion as these signs may not always be present. Even if they are, they may be
exceedingly difficult to appreciate on the battlefield. Any casualty with penetrating chest trauma
will have some degree of hemo-pneumothorax as a result of their primary wound and the
additional trauma caused by a needle thoracostomy would not be expected to worsen their
condition if a tension pneumothorax is not present.
(3) Chest tubes are not recommended in this phase of care because:
(a) They are not needed to provide initial treatment for a tension pneumothorax.
(b) They are more difficult and time consuming for inexperienced personnel to perform,
especially in the absence of adequate light.
(c) They are more likely to cause additional tissue damage and subsequent infection than a less
traumatic procedure.
(d) No documentation was found in the literature that demonstrated a benefit from tube
thoracostomy performed by paramedical personnel on the battlefield.
(4) Chest tube placement does not cause re -inflation of the collapsed lung. In order for the lung to
re-inflate, you must have suction to create a negative pressure in the chest cavity or positive
pressure ventilation to reinflate the lung from within.
g. Bleeding.
(1) The soldier medic should now address any significant bleeding sites not previously controlled.
They should only remove the absolute minimum of clothing required to expose and treat
injuries, both because of time constraints and the need to protect the patient from
environmental extremes.
(2) Significant bleeding should be stopped as quickly as possible using a tourniquet as describe d
previously. Once the tactical situation permits, consideration should be given to loosening the
tourniquet and using direct pressure, a pressure dressing, a Chitosan Hemostatic Dressing, or

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a hemostatic powder (QuikClot) to control any additional hemorrhage. Do not completely
remove the tourniquet, just loosen it and leave in place.
(3) If the tourniquet has been in place for more than 6 hours leave it alone. Tourniquets are very
painful, be prepared to manage your casualty’s pain. If the casualty needs fluid resuscitation,
do so before you loosen the tourniquet; also ensure there is a clinical response to the fluids.
Do not periodically loosen the tourniquet to allow blood flow to the limb. This can be rapidly
fatal. If unable to control bleeding with other means, retighten the tourniquet. Remember: it is
better to sacrifice the limb than to allow the casualty to bleed to death.
(4) A new QuickClot product called the QuickClot ACS (Advanced Clotting Sponge) is a mesh -
woven bag that contains QuickClot granules and can be packed directly into the wound like a
Kerlix bandage.
h. Intravenous access.
(1) Intravenous access should be gained next. Although ATLS recommends starting two large -
bore (14 or 16 gauge) IVs, the use of a single 18-gauge catheter is preferred in the field setting
because of the ease of starting and also serves to ration supplies.
(2) Heparin or saline lock-type access tubing should be used unless the patient needs immediate
fluid resuscitation. Flushing the saline lock every 2 hours will usually suffice to keep it open
without the need to use heparinized solution.
(3) Soldier medics should ensure the IV is not started distal to a significant wound.
(4) If unable to initiate a peripheral IV, consideration should be given to starting a sternal
intraosseous (IO) line to provide fluids.
(5) If unable to gain vascular access through a peripheral vein, there is an IO device available to
gain access through the sternum. The F.A.S.T.1 device is available and allows the puncture of
the manubrium of the sternum and administration of fluids at rates similar to IVs.
i. Fluids.
(1) 1,000 ml of Ringers Lactate (2.4 lbs.) will expand the intravascular volume 250 ml within 1 hour.
(2) 500 ml of 6% Hetastarch (trade name Hextend, weighs 1.3 lbs.) will expand the intravascular
volume by 800 ml within 1 hour. One 500 ml bag of Hextend solution is functionally equivalent
to three 1,000 ml bags of lactated Ringers. There is more than a 51/2 pound advantage in the
overall weight-to-benefit ratio (1.3 lb to 7.2 lbs, respectively); this expansion is sustained for at
least 8 hours.
(3) The first consideration in selecting a resuscitation fluid is whether to use a crystalloid or colloid
solution. Crystalloids are fluids such as Ringers Lactate or normal saline where sodium is the
primary osmotically-active solute. Since sodium eventually distributes throughout the entire
extracellular space, most of the fluids in crystalloid solutions remain in the intravascular space
for only a limited time. Colloids (Hextend) are solutions where the primary osmotically active
molecules are of greater molecular weight and do not readily pass through the capillary walls
into the interstitium. These solutions are retained in the intravascular space for a much longer
period than crystalloids. In addition, the oncotic pressure of colloid solutions may result in an
expansion of the blood volume that is greater than the amount infused.
j. Algorithm for fluid resuscitation.

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(1) Superficial wounds (> 50% injured): no immediate I.V. fluids needed: oral fluids should be
encouraged. Stethoscopes and blood pressure cuffs are rarely available or useful to the front
line soldier medic in the typically noisy and chaotic battlefield environment. A palpable radial
pulse and normal mentation are adequate and tactically relevant resuscitation endpoints to
either start or stop fluid resuscitation. Both can be adequately assessed in noisy and chaotic
situations without mechanical devices.
(2) Any significant extremity or truncal wound (neck, chest, abdomen, and pelvis) with or without
obvious blood loss or hypotension.
(a) If the casualty is coherent and has a palpable radial pulse, blood loss has likely stopped.
Initiate a saline lock, hold fluids and re-evaluate as frequently as the situation allows.
(b) Significant blood loss from any wound and the casualty has no radial pulse or is not coherent
- STOP THE BLEEDING by whatever means available: tourniquet, direct pressure,
hemostatic dressing (HemCon), hemostatic powder (QuikClot) etc. is the primary means
when possible. However, greaten than 90% of hypotensive casualties suffer from truncal
injuries, which are unavailable to these resuscitative measures (casualty will have lost a
minimum of 1,500 ml of blood or 30% of their circulating volume). After hemorrhage is
controlled to the extent possible, start 500 ml of Hextend. If mental status improves and the
radial pulse returns, maintain the saline lock and hold fluids.
(c) If no response is seen, within 30 minutes give an additional 500 ml. of Hextend and monitor
vital signs. If no response is seen after 1,000 ml of Hextend, consider triaging supplies and
giving attention to more salvageable casualties. Remember, this amount is equivalent to
more than 6 liters of Ringers Lactate.
(d) Because of the need to conserve existing supplies, no casualty should receive more than
1,000 ml of Hextend.
(e) Uncontrolled hemorrhage (thoracic or intra-abdominal), needs rapid evacuation and surgical
intervention. If this is not possible, determine the number of casualties verses the amount of
available fluids. If supplies are limited or casualties are numerous, determine if fluid
resuscitation is recommended.
NOTE: A number of studies involving uncontrolled hemorrhage models have clearly established that
aggressive fluid resuscitation in the setting of unrepaired vascular injury is either of no benefit or
results in an increase in blood loss and or mortality when compared to no fluid resuscitation or
hypotensive resuscitation. Several studies noted that only after uncontrolled hemorrhage was
stopped did fluid resuscitation prove to be of benefit.
(f) If a casualty is unconscious with a traumatic brain injury (TBI) and no peripheral pulse,
resuscitate to restore the peripheral pulse.
k. Dress wounds to prevent further contamination and help hemostasis. Emergency Trauma
Dressings (HTD/Israeli bandage) are ideal for this. Check for additional wounds (exit) since the
high velocity projectiles from modern assault rifles may tumble and take erratic courses when
traveling through tissues, often leading to exit sites that are remote from the entry wound.
l. Only remove enough clothing to expose and treat wounds. Care must be taken to protect the
casualty from hypothermia. Casualties who are hypovolemic become hypothermic quite rapidly if
traveling in a CASEVAC or MEDEVAC asset and are not protected from the wind, regardless of
the ambient temperature. Protect the casualty by wrapping them in a protective wrap (Blizzard
Rescue Wrap®).

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1 November 2005
m. Monitoring: pulse oximetry may be available to assist with clinical assessment of your casualty.
These readings could be misleading with a casualty in shock or in severe hypothermia.
n. Pain control.
(1) If the casualty is able to fight: Meloxicam (Mobic 15 mg) PO initially with two 650 mg of
Acetominophen (bi-layered Tylenol® caplets) every 8 hours. Along with an antibiotic this
makes up the “Combat Pill Pack.”
(2) If the casualty is unable to fight: 5 mg IV morphine may be given every 10 minutes until
adequate pain control is achieved. If a saline lock is used, it should be flushed with 5 ml of
saline after the morphine administration. Ensure some visible indication of time and amount of
morphine given and document on the casualty's field medical card (FMC).
(3) Soldiers and soldier medics who administer morphine should also be trained in its side effects
and in the use of Naloxone (Narcan). Promethazine (Phenergan) 25 mg IV or IM should also
be given to combat the nausea and vomiting associated with Morphine administration.
(4) Currently, pain relief can be attained by the use of Fentanyl Transmucosal Lozenges. These
sucker-like lozenges can be placed between the cheek and gum and will be absorbed through
the oral mucosa and swallowed and provide pain relief similar to 10 mg of morphine. This
method allows for narcotic pain relief to be delivered to casualties without the need for IV
access. Intranasal Ketamine is also being developed for non-injectable pain control and may
be available within the next 6 months to a year.
(5) Soldiers should avoid aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti -inflammatory medicines while in a
combat zone because of their detrimental effects on hemostasis.
o. Fractures should be splinted as circumstances allow, ensuring pulse, motor and sensory (PMS)
checks before and after splinting.
p. Antibiotics should be considered in all battlefield wounds since these type wounds are prone to
infection. Infection is a late cause of morbidity and mortality in wounds sustained on the
battlefield.
(1) In soldiers who are awake and alert, Gatifloxacin 400 mg PO every day is an acceptable
regimen. Each individual soldier will be issued this medication prior to deployment. In
unconscious casualties, Cefotetan 2 Gms, IV or IM, which may be repeated at 12-hour intervals
until evacuation. An additional injectable antibiotic, Ertapenum 1 gm, may be used IV or IM.
The IV route may not be given IVP; it must be administered over 30 minutes. When giving it
IM, it must be mixed with 3.2 ml of 1% lidocaine and used within one hour.
(2) With personnel with allergies to fluoroquinolones or cephalosporins, consider other broad-
spectrum antibiotics in the planning (pre-deployment) phase.
q. Combat is a frightening experience especially if wounded. Reassurance to the casualty can be

simply telling them that you are there and are going to take care of them. It can be as effective as
morphing in relieving anxiety. Explain care that is being given.
r. Document clinical assessments, treatment rendered and changes in the casualty's status; forward
with the casualty to next level of care.
5. CASEVAC Care
a. At some point in the operation, the casualty will be scheduled for evacuation; however,
evacuation time may be quite variable, from minutes to hours to days. There are a multitude of

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factors that will affect the ability to evacuate a casualty. Availability of aircraft or vehicles,
weather, tactical situation, and mission may all reflect the ability or inability to evacuate
casualties.
b. There are only minor differences in the care provided in the CASEVAC phase verses the Tactical
Field Care phase.
(1) Additional medical personnel may accompany the evacuation asset and assis t the soldier
medic on the ground. This may be important for the following reasons:
(a) The soldier medic may be among the casualties.
(b) The soldier medic may be dehydrated, hypothermic or otherwise debilitated.
(c) The evacuation asset’s medical equipment may need to be prepared prior to evacuation.
(d) There may be multiple casualties that exceed the capability of the soldier medic to care for
simultaneously.
(2) Additional medical equipment can be brought with the evacuation asset to augment the
equipment the soldier medic currently has. This equipment may include:
(a) Electronic monitoring equipment capable of measuring a casualty's blood pressure, pulse and
pulse oximetry.
(b) Oxygen should be available during this phase.
(c) Ringers’ Lactate at a rate of 250 ml per hour for casualties that are not in shock should help
to reverse dehydration, and in some special circumstances blood products may be available
during this phase.
(d) Thermal Angel fluid warmers may be needed to warm IV fluids.
(e) PASG if available may be beneficial in pelvic fractures and helping to control pelvic and
abdominal bleeding (they are contraindicated in thoracic and traumatic brain injuries).

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C. C191W3TC/1 CMAST: Advanced Airway Techniques
Given a casualty requiring airway management under simulated combat conditions and an M-5 medical
aid bag stocked with a basic load, provide basic and advanced airway management techniques to open
and maintain a patent airway. Perform all measures IAW the concepts and principles of Tactical Combat
Casualty Care and the Combat Medic Advanced Skills Training (CMAST) program.
Introduction
One of the most critical skills the soldier medic must know is basic and advanced airway management.
Without proper airway management, techniques and oxygen administration, casualties may die
needlessly. The soldier medic must be able to select, and effectively utilize the proper equipment for
managing the airway of a combat casualty on the battlefield.
1. Review the Physiology of Respiration
a. Accomplished through pressure changes in the lungs; there are two phases.
(1) Inhalation (an active process).
(a) Initiated by contracting of respiratory system muscles.
(b) Diaphragm contracts and drops downward.
(c) Intercostal muscles contract causing the ribs and sternum to move upward and outward.
(d) The expanded size of the chest cavity causes the intrathoracic pressure in the lungs to fall,
pulling air into the lungs.
(2) Exhalation (a passive process).
(a) Respiratory muscles relax; diaphragm moves upward (original position).
(b) Chest wall recoils.
(c) Intrathoracic pressure rises.
(d) Air is pushed out.
b. Gas exchange in the lungs.
(1) Alveoli supply oxygen (O²) to, and remove carbon dioxide (CO²) from the lungs.
(2) Exchange is made by diffusion across the cell wall of the alveoli and capillaries.
2. Establish an Airway
a. Sources of airway obstruction.
(1) The tongue is the most common cause of airway obstruction.
(2) Foreign body airway obstruction (FBAO).
(3) Trauma/Combat:
(a) Loose teeth.
(b) Facial bone fractures.
(c) Fractured larynx.
(4) Laryngeal spasm (laryngeal edema can severely obstruct airflow).
(5) Aspiration.
b. Insert a nasopharyngeal airway (NPA) adjunct.
(1) Purpose: to maintain an artificial airway for oxygen therapy or airway management when
suctioning is necessary.

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1 November 2005
(2) Indications: to maintain an open airway.
(a) Casualty is conscious, semi-conscious or has an active gag reflex.
(b) Casualty has injuries to mouth (e.g. broken teeth, massive oral tissue damage).
(c) Seizure casualties who may have clenched teeth due to active seizing.
(d) When vomiting is likely to occur.
(3) Contraindications.
(a) Any evidence of a head injury with roof of mouth fracture; the airway may inadvertently enter
the cranial vault with this type fracture.
(b) Exposed brain matter.
(c) CSF draining from nose, mouth or ears.
(4) Complications.
(a) The most common complication is minor tissue trauma (i.e. nosebleed) this however, is not
sufficient indication to remove the airway.
(b) May trigger a gag reflex with some casualties if the NPA is too long.
(5) Nasopharyngeal insertion procedures
(a) Place the casualty on a firm surface in the supine position with the C-spine stabilized.
(b) Select proper size nasopharyngeal airway.
1) Diameter: select an airway with a diameter smaller than the casualty's nostril or one that is
approximately the diameter of the casua lty's little finger.
2) Length: measure from the tip of the casualty's nose to their ear lobe.
(c) Lubricate the NPA with a water-soluble lubricant (or tap water or saliva if lubricant is not
available).
(d) Push the tip of the casualty's nose slightly upward to expose the opening in the nostril.
(e) Keeping the head in a neutral position, insert the tip of the NPA through the right nostril.
(f) Slowly advance tube along floor of nasal cavity with bevel pointing toward septum until flange
rest firmly against casualty's nostril
1) If resistance is met during insertion, do not continue to insert.
2) Stop, remove the adjunct, re-lubricate and try the other nostril.
NOTE: Most NPAs are made to fit the right nostril. If you have to insert it into the left nostril, turn the
airway upside down so that bevel remains toward the septum, then insert it straight back until you
reach the posterior pharynx. Turn the airway 180 degrees until it lies behind the tongue.
3) If resistance is still met, check proper size or use alternate artificial airway method.
(g) Place the casualty in the recovery position.
(h) To remove the airway, pull out with a steady motion along the curvature of the nasal cavity.
3. Advanced Airway Management
a. Combitube®.
(1) The Combitube is an esophageal-tracheal double lumen airway and is considered to be an
intermediate airway whose abilities lie between the airway adjuncts oropharyngeal airway
(OPA), nasopharyngeal airway (NPA) and an endotracheal intubation tube (ETT).

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1 November 2005
(2) The Combitube airway is designed to provide a patent airway for a respiratory/cardiac-arrested
patient. The Combitube is a blind-insertion airway device (BIAD). It has been used
successfully in casualties with difficult airways secondary to trauma, upper airway bleeding and
vomiting.
(3) The Combitube can be used in casualties whose cervical spine has been immobilized with a
rigid cervical collar, though placement may be more difficult. Ventilation does not seem to be
affected by the rigid cervical collar if the Combitube is emplaced.
(4) The double lumen design allows for effective ventilations to be provided regardless of whether
the tube is placed in the trachea or the esophagus.
(5) The Combitube comes in two sizes: 37 French and 41 French.
(6) Indications.
(a) Adult casualties in respiratory distress.
(b) Adult casualties in cardiac arrest.
(7) Contraindications.
(a) Intact gag reflex.
(b) Casualties less than 5 feet in height.
(c) Known esophageal disease.
(d) Caustic substance (acid or lye) ingestion.
(8) Side effects and complications.
(a) An increased incidence of sore throat, dysphagia and upper airway hematoma as compared
to ETT.
(b) Esophageal rupture is a rare complication but has been described.
(c) Complications may be partially preventable by avoiding over-inflation of the distal and
proximal cuffs.
(d) Take appropriate BSI precautions, including facial protection, as vomiting can occur through
the #2 tube if the initial placement is in the esophagus.
(9) Insertion procedures.
(a) Inspect the upper airway for visible obstruction.
(b) Hyperventilate (> 20/min) the casualty for 30 seconds.
(c) Position the casualty's head in a neutral position.
(d) Test both cuffs (white and blue) for leaks by inflating with 15 ml (white) or 100 ml (blue) of air.
(e) Insert the Combitube in the same direction as the natural curvature of the pharynx.
1) Grasp the tongue and lower jaw between your thumb and index fingers and lift upward
(tongue-jaw-lift maneuver).
2) Insert the Combitube gently but firmly into the pharynx until the black rings on the tube are
positioned between the casualty's incisor teeth.
3) Do not use force - if the tube does not insert easily, withdraw it and retry; hyperventilate
(hyperoxygenate) the casualty between each attempt.
4) Inflate the #1 (blue) pilot balloon with 100 ml of air using a 100 ml syringe. Inflate the #2
(white) pilot balloon with 15 ml of air using a 20 ml syringe.
5) Ventilate through the primary #1 (blue) tube. If auscultation of breath sounds is positive
and auscultation of gastric sounds is negative, continue to ventilate.

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1 November 2005
6) If auscultation of breath sounds is negative and gastric insufflation is positive, immediately
begin ventilations through the shorter (white) connecting tube #2. Confirm tracheal
ventilation of breath sounds and absence of gastric insufflation.
7) If auscultation of breath sounds and auscultation of gastric insufflation is negative, the
Combitube may have been advanced too far into the pharynx. Deflate the #1 balloon/cuff,
and move the Combitube approx. 2-3 cm. out of the casualty's mouth.
8) Re-inflate the #1 balloon with 100 ml of air and ventilate through the longer #1 connecting
tube. If auscultation of breath sounds is positive and auscultation of gastric insufflation is
negative, continue to ventilate.
9) If breath sounds are still absent, immediately deflate both cuffs and extubate the casualty.
10) Insert oropharyngeal or nasopharyngeal airway and hyperventilate the casualty with a bag-
valve-mask (BVM) device.
(f) Combitube removal procedure.
1) The Combitube should not be removed unless:
a) Tube placement cannot be determined/confirmed.
b) The casualty no longer tolerates the tube (begins to gag).
c) The casualty vomits past either the distal or pharyngeal tube.
d) There is a palpable pulse and the casualty starts breathing on their own.
e) A medical officer (physician or PA) is present to insert an ETT.
2) Have suction equipment available and ready.
3) Logroll the casualty to the side, unless a spinal injury exists.
4) Deflate the pharyngeal cuff using the #1 pilot balloon.
5) Deflate the distal cuff using the #2 pilot balloon.
6) Gently remove the Combitube while suctioning the airway.
b. Emergency surgical cricothyrotomy - indications.
(1) Inability to ventilate the casualty with an obstructed airway is an indication for creating a
surgical airway. Severe maxillofacial injury, airway obstruction and structural deformities of the
airway are such indications.
(2) When maxillofacial, cervical spine, head, or soft tissue injuries are present, several factors may
prevent ventilation. These factors include:
(a) Gross distortion of structures (loss of viable landmarks).
(b) Airway obstruction.
(c) Massive emesis.
(d) Significant hemorrhage.
(3) In such casualties, an emergency surgical cricothyrotomy is an excellent way to obtain
definitive control of the airway.
(4) Emergency airway catheters with a 6 mm diameter allow for spontaneous breathing and
adequate oxygenation in adults.
(5) Complications of emergency surgical cricothyrotomy.
(a) Incorrect tube placement.
(b) Blood aspiration.

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1 November 2005
(c) Esophageal perforation or laceration.
(d) Hematoma.
(e) Laceration of the trachea.
(f) Vocal cord paralysis, hoarseness.
(6) Anatomical landmarks.
(a) Thyroid cartilage.
(b) Cricoid cartilage.
(c) Cricothyroid membrane.
(7) Procedure.
(a) Identify and palpate the cricothyroid membrane between the cricoid and thyroid cartilages.
(b) With a #15 or #10 scalpel blade, make a 1½ inch vertical incision through the skin directly
over the cricothyroid membrane.
(c) Stabilize the larynx with one hand and, using the scalpel or a hemostat, cut or poke through
the cricothyroid membrane.
NOTE: A rush of air may be felt through the opening.
(d) Insert the tips of the hemostat through the incision and open the jaws to dilate the opening.
(e) Insert the end of the ET tube or cannula between the jaws of the hemostat; the tube should
be in the trachea and directed distally towards the lungs.
(f) Inflate the cuff with 5-10 ml of air.
NOTE: Do not advance the ET tube more than 2-3 inches, as this could result in the intubation of the
right main stem bronchus.
(g) Check for air exchange and verify placement of the tube by auscultating both lungs.
1) Listen and feel for air passing in and out of the tube.
2) Look for bilateral rise and fall of the chest.
(h) Indications of proper tube placement.
1) Unilateral breath sounds and rise and fall of the chest (right main stem intubation); deflate
cuff and retract 1-2 inches and recheck the airway.
2) Air coming out of the casualty's mouth (tube pointing away from the lungs); remove tube
and reinsert with tube facing lungs.
(i) If the casualty is not breathing spontaneously, direct someone to perform rescue breathing.
1) Connect tube to BVM and ventilate at 20 breaths per minute.
2) If no BVM is available, perform mouth-to-tube resuscitation at 20 breaths per minute.
3) If air exchange is adequate, or once rescue breathing has been initiated, secure the tube
with tape or a commercial tube securing device.
(j) Apply a dressing to further protect the tube and incision site using two 4x4 gauze sponges
(cut halfway through each). Place them on opposite sides of the tube, so the tube comes up
through the cut and the overlapping gauze sponges. Alternately, apply two 4x4 gauze
dressings in a "V" shape fold at the edges of the cannula and tape securely.
(k) Monitor the casualty's respirations on a regular basis; administer suction as needed.
1) Reassess air exchange and tube placement every time the casualty is moved.

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2) Assist respirations if the casualty's respiratory rate falls below 10 breaths per minute or
above 24 breaths per minute.
4. Practical Exercise 1 - See page PE-1, DCMT10003 Insert an Oropharyngeal Airway (OPA).
5. Practical Exercise 2 - See page PE-5, DCMT10004 Insert a Nasopharyngeal Airway (NPA).
6. Practical Exercise 3 - See page PE-9, DCMT10009 Insert a Combitube.
7. Practical Exercise 4 - See page PE-15, DCMT10010 Perform an Emergency Surgical
Cricothyrotomy.

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D. C191W4TC/1 CMAST: Chest Trauma Management
Given a casualty with a suspected chest injury under simulated combat conditions and an M-5 medical
aid bag stocked with a basic load, Perform appropriate trauma assessment and emergency care for the
traumatic chest wall injury and provide treatment for a casualty with progressive respiratory distress.
Perform all measures IAW the concepts and principles of Tactical Combat Casualty Care and the Combat
Medic Advanced Skills Training (CMAST) program.
Introduction
Knowledge of the anatomy of the thoracic cavity is essential when planning for chest trauma. You must
recognize the clinical presentation of major thoracic injuries and provide appropriate care. Open thoracic
injuries can be the result of a penetrating or blunt trauma and, unless treated rapidly and appropriately,
these injuries can result in severe morbidity and mortality on the battlefield. This lesson is an overview of
the principles and techniques of managing these injuries.
1. Overview of Thoracic Trauma
a. General.
(1) Chest injuries may result from:
(a) Gunshot wounds (GSW).
(b) Shrapnel.
(c) Explosions.
(d) Motor vehicle crashes (MVC).
(e) Falls.
(f) Crush injuries.
(g) Stab wounds.
(2) Review organs of the thorax.
(a) Heart.
(b) Trachea.
(c) Bronchi.
(d) Lungs.
(e) Mediastinum - cavity between lungs, contains heart and great vessels.
(f) Major blood vessels.
1) Pulmonary artery and vein.
2) Aorta.
3) Inferior Vena Cave (IVC) and Superior Vena Cava (SVC).
(3) Upper abdominal organs are also protected by the lower rib cage.
(a) Spleen.
(b) Kidneys.

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1 November 2005
(c) Liver.
(d) Stomach.
(e) Pancreas.
(4) Muscles within the thorax (intercostal mus cles) between adjacent ribs that function as
secondary muscles of respiration.
(5) Diaphragm - a musculofibrous partition separating the thoracic and abdominal cavities, which
will vary in location based on phase of respiration (inspiration lower and expiration higher).
b. Determine mechanism of injury (MOI).
(1) A penetrating thoracic wound at the fourth intercostal space (level of the nipples) or lower
should be assumed to be an abdominal injury as well as thoracic injury (diaphragm higher in
expiration).
(2) Thoracic injuries may be result of penetrating objects or blunt trauma.
(a) Penetrating injuries.
1) GSW or stab wounds.
2) Concentrates forces of injury over a smaller area.
3) Trajectory of a bullet can be unpredictable and all thoracic and abdominal structures are at
risk.
(b) Blunt trauma.
1) Force is distributed over a larger area.
2) Visceral injuries may occur from:
a) Deceleration (sudden stops, MVCs, aircraft crashes).
b) Compression (crush injuries).
c) Sheering forces (MVCs).
d) Bursting (traumatic rupture of the aorta, falls from great height).
c. Assess the casualty:
(1) Identify signs and symptoms.
(a) Assess mental status (AVPU).
(b) Assess the airway.
(c) Assess the breathing.
(d) Assess the circulation.
(2) Signs indicative of chest injury may include:

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1 November 2005
(a) Shock.
(b) Cyanosis.
(c) Hemoptysis (coughing up blood).
(d) Chest wall contusion.
(e) Flail chest.
(f) Open wounds.
(g) Jugular vein distension (JVD).
(h) Tracheal deviation.
(3) Respiratory rate and effort.
(a) Tachypnea (rapid respiratory rate).
(b) Bradypnea (slow respiratory rate).
(c) Labored.
(d) Retractions (utilizing accessory muscles to assist breathing).
(e) Evidence of respiratory distress.
(4) Assess the neck.
(a) Position of trachea (midline?).
(b) Subcutaneous emphysema.
(c) JVD.
(5) Assess the chest wall.
(a) Contusions.
(b) Tenderness.
(c) Asymmetry.
(d) Open wounds or impaled objects.
(e) Crepitation.
(f) Paradoxical movement (opposite from the rest of the chest).
(g) Lung sounds.
1) Absent or decreased.
a) Unilateral.

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1 November 2005
b) Bilateral.
2) Location.
3) Bowel sounds in chest?
(h) Lung sounds - percussion.
1) Hyperresonance.
a) Pneumothorax.
b) Tension pneumothorax.
2) Hyporesonance (hemothorax).
(i) Compare both sides of the chest for symmetrical rise and fall with each respiration.
d. Chest physiology.
(1) A normal chest cavity produces a negative pressure.
(2) A penetrating wound (opening to the outside) creates a positive pressure in the chest cavity.
(3) Air will normally enter the chest by the easiest method (path of least resistance). If the hole in
the chest wall is less than 2/3 the diameter of the trachea, the air will preferentially enter via the
trachea. If the hole is greater than 2/3 the diameter of the trachea, a sucking chest wound will
be present and air will move in and out of the hole in the chest wall.
2. Identify Major, Immediate Life-Threatening Thoracic Injuries

a. Open pneumothorax.
(1) Caused by penetrating thoracic injury and may present as a sucking chest wound. The lung
collapses and air does not enter, oxygenation of the blood is reduced and ventilation is
impaired and hypoxia ensues.
(2) Management.
(a) Ensure an open and patent airway.
(b) Quickly close the chest wall defect both entrance and exit (if present) with an occlusive
dressing. Tape three or all four sides of the occlusive dressing to ensure a proper seal and to
avoid the dressing becoming loose during transport of the casualty.
1) Occlusive dressings (plastic from dressing, petrolatum gauze, etc.) may cause the casualty
to develop a tension pneumothorax; continuously monitor the casualty for progressive
respiratory difficulty and treat for tension pneumothorax as necessary.
2) Asherman Chest Seal; circular dressing with adhesive on one side to adhere to the chest
wall, designed with a built in one-way valve to prevent tension pneumothorax. Does not
adhere very well in the presence of blood, perspiration and other fluids; will need to dry the
chest prior to application. Tincture of benzoin is also effective to create adhesion.
(c) Place the casualty in a sitting position if the tactical situation will allow.

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(d) Monitor the casualty's respirations.
(e) Evacuate to the nearest MTF ASAP.
b. Tension pneumothorax.
(1) Occurs when a one-way valve is created from either penetrating or blunt trauma; may also
occur with the application of an occlusive dressing to an open chest wound.
(a) Air cannot leave plural space and pressure develops.
(b) Causes further collapse of affected lung and pushes mediastinum in opposite direction as
pressure increases, which may compromise the good lung, major vessels and the heart.
(2) Clinical presentation:
(a) Anxiety, apprehension, agitation.
(b) Diminished or absent breath sounds.
(c) Increasing dyspnea with cyanosis.
(d) Tachypnea (rapid respiratory rate).
(e) Hyperresonance to percussion on affected side.
(f) Hypotension, cold clammy skin.
(g) Casualty begins to deteriorate rapidly.
(h) JVD and cyanosis.
(i) The development of decreased lung compliance in an intubated casualty should alert you to
the possibility of a tension pneumothorax.
(j) Tracheal deviation is a late finding and its absence does not rule out the presence of a
tension pneumothorax; remember: any casualty with unilateral chest trauma with progressive
respiratory distress should be evaluated for the development of a tension pneumothorax.
(k) Above findings may be difficult to assess in a combat situation, you must be alert to this
problem with penetrating chest trauma.
(3) Management (initial treatment of a pneumothorax is an occlusive dressing).
(a) Ensure an open and patent airway.
(b) Decompress the affected side of the chest with a needle decompression. The presence of a
tension pneumothorax with signs of progressive respiratory distress - decompress the chest.
(4) Procedure.
(a) Identify the second and third intercostal space (ICS) on the anterior chest wall, mid-clavicular
line (MCL) on the same side as the pneumothorax.
(b) Prep the above area with an antimicrobial (antiseptic) agent.

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(c) Insert 14-gauge needle and catheter over the top of the third rib into the second ICS at a 90-
degree angle at the MCL. Needle and catheter must be long enough to enter the chest cavity
(2.5 - 3 inches).
(d) If a tension pneumothorax is present, a hiss of air may be heard escaping from the chest
cavity.
(e) Remove the needle, leave the catheter in place.
(f) Tape the catheter hub to the chest wall.
(g) Monitor the casualty's respirations, if signs of progressive respiratory distress reappear, the
catheter may have become plugged by blood or tissue. Attempt to irrigate; if unsuccessful,
place a second catheter next to the first.
(h) Evacuate to the nearest MTF ASAP.
(5) Complications may develop if the needle is inserted along the bottom of the rib. Hemorrhage
and/or nerve damage may result from the neurovascular bundle injury.
3. Practical Exercise 1 - See page PE-19, DCMT10024 Manage an Open Pneumothorax.

4. Practical Exercise 2 - See page PE-23, DCMT10015 Decompress the Chest: Needle
Decompression.

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E. C191W5TC/1 CMAST: Hemorrhage Control
Given a casualty or casualties with significant life-threatening injuries under simulated combat conditions
and an M-5 medical aid bag stocked with a basic load, Perform appropriate measures to control the
hemorrhage and prevent hypovolemic (hemorrhagic) shock. Perform all measures IAW the concepts and
principles of Tactical Combat Casualty Care and the Combat Medic Advanced Skills Training (CMAST)
program.
Introduction
Basic lifesaving steps for the soldier medic include clearing the airway/restoring breathing, stopping the
bleeding, protecting the wound, and treating/preventing shock. These are the A-B-C measures that apply
to all injuries. Certain types of wounds and burns will require special precautions and procedures when
applying these measures. This lesson provides specific information on basic and advanced methods of
controlling bleeding and preventing shock.
1. Review the structure and Function of the Circulatory System
a. Cardiovascular system.
(1) The heart has four chambers.
(a) Right atrium: receives oxygen-poor blood (deoxygenated) from the body and upon
contraction, sends it to the right ventricle. The superior vena cava (SVC) and inferior vena
cava (IVC) are two large veins that return blood to the right atrium.
(b) Right ventricle: receives blood from the right atrium; pumps blood out to the lungs via the
pulmonary arteries.
(c) Left atrium: receives oxygen-rich (oxygenated) blood from the lungs; contracts, sending blood
to the left ventricle.
(d) Left ventricle: pumps blood into the aorta for distribution to the entire body; most muscular
and strongest chamber of the heart.
(2) Blood vessels.
(a) Arteries.
1) Carry blood away from the heart.
2) Arterial blood is oxygenated except for the pulmonary artery, which carries oxygen-poor
blood from the right ventricle to the lungs.
3) Key arteries.
a) Coronary arteries: arises from the base of the aorta and supplies blood to the heart
muscle.
b) Aorta: largest artery in the body; proceeds superiorly from the left ventricle, curves to the
left, then travels along the spine inferiorly, splitting at the level of the umbilicus to form the
right and left iliac arteries.
c) Right and left pulmonary arteries: carry oxygen-poor blood to the lungs.

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d) Carotid arteries: arise from the aorta, bilaterally and travel through the neck to supply
blood to the head and brain. The external and internal carotid artery split superiorly in the
neck.
e) Femoral arteries: as the iliac arteries reach the thighs, the arteries are called the femoral
arteries. The largest arteries of lower extremities split into the superficial and deep
femoral arteries bilaterally.
f) Brachial arteries: bilateral, the continuance of the subclavian artery in the upper arm to
the elbow.
g) Radial and ulnar arteries: the brachial artery splits at the level of the elbow to form these
two large arteries in each forearm.
h) Posterior tibial artery: posterior aspect of the medial malleolus.
i) Dorsalis pedis artery: top of the foot.
(b) Arterioles, capillaries and venules.
1) An arteriole is the smallest branch of an artery.
2) Capillaries are tiny blood vessels arising from the arterioles; found throughout the body.
Capillaries are where oxygen (O²) and carbon dioxide (CO²) exchange, nutrients are
delivered to the tissues and waste products are removed.
3) A venule is the smallest branch of a vein.
(c) Veins.
1) Carry blood from the capillaries back to the heart.
2) Important veins.
a) Vena Cavae: returns blood to right atrium. The SVC drains blood mostly from the upper
extremities and the head. The IVC drains blood received from the thorax, abdomen,
pelvis, and the lower extremities.
b) Pulmonary vein: carries oxygenated blood from the lungs to the left atrium of the heart.
b. Pulses.
(1) Forms when the left ventricle contracts, sending a wave of blood through the arterial system.
(2) Peripheral pulses.
(a) Radial pulse.
(b) Brachial pulse.
(c) Posterior tibial pulse.
(d) Dorsalis pedis (pedal) pulse.
(3) Central pulses.

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(a) Carotid pulse.
(b) Femoral pulse.
c. Blood.
(1) The (adult) human body contains approximately 5-6 liters of blood. The loss of one (1) pint of
blood may not cause any harmful effects; however, the acute loss of two (2) pints may bring
about the signs and symptoms of hypovolemic shock.
(2) Young, healthy soldiers can compensate for lost blood for a long period of time until their vital
signs suddenly plummet. The average person will become unconscious with a blood pressure
@ 50 mmHg.
(3) The body works to control blood loss by several different mechanisms:
(a) Vascular spasm causes the blood vessels to constrict and lessen the blood loss.
(b) Platelets are activated by an injury to the blood vessel wall and cause a platelet plug to form.
(c) The clotting cascade is activated and a 13-step process is involved in the actual clotting of the
blood.
d. Clinical signs of acute hemorrhage.
Class % Blood Loss Clinical Signs

I Up to 750 ml (15%) Slight increase in heart rate; no change in blood pressure or
respiratory rate.
II 750 to 1500 ml (15-30%) Increased heart rate and respirations; increased diastolic blood
pressure, anxiety, fright or hostility.
III 1500 to 2000 ml (30-40%) Increased heart rate and respirations; fall in systolic blood pressure;
significant altered mental status.
IV > 2000 ml (>40%) Severe tachycardia; severe lowering of systolic blood pressure; cold
and pale skin; severely altered mental status.
2. Identify Hemorrhage
a. Hemorrhage.
(1) Effects are dependent upon the amount of blood lost in relation to the physical size of the
casualty. The amount of visible blood is often not a good way to judge the severity of an injury.
Serious injuries, such as open femur fractures do not bleed heavily externally and relatively
minor injuries, such as a scalp laceration, will often bleed profusely.
(2) Internal bleeding can result in severe blood loss with resultant shock (hypoperfusion) and
subsequent death. Suspicion and severity of internal bleeding should be based on the
mechanism of injury (MOI). Although not usually visible, internal bleeding can result in serious
blood loss. A casualty with internal bleeding can develop shock before you realize the extent of
their injuries.
(3) Effects depend upon the casualty's baseline medical condition. High-risk casualties include
multiple trauma victims, pregnant women, the elderly, and casualties with chronic medical
conditions and taking multiple medications.
(4) Traumatized, painful, swollen, and deformed extremities or long bone fractures may also lead
to serious internal blood loss. A fractured humerus or tibia may be associated with the loss of

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1 November 2005
up to 750 ml of blood. 1,500 ml is commonly associated with a femur fracture and several liters
of blood may accumulate in the pelvis associated with a pelvic fracture.
b. Sources of external bleeding and characteristics.
(1) Arterial bleeding.
(a) Rapid, profuse and pulsating with the blood escaping in spurts that are synchronized with the
body's pulses.
(b) Usually bright red in color because it is rich in oxygen.
(c) This type of bleeding is the least frequent, but the most serious form of hemorrhage
encountered on the battlefield.
(d) Early consideration for use of a tourniquet on a severely bleeding extremity in the tactical
environment is the standard of care. As per the tenets of TC-3, early use of temporary
tourniquets will greatly decrease the mortality of severely injured casualties.
(2) Venous bleeding.
(a) Steady flow.
(b) Usually dark red or maroon in color because it is oxygen-poor.
(3) Capillary bleeding.
(a) Slow and oozing.
(b) Often clots spontaneously.
c. Internal signs of hemorrhage.
(1) Internal signs of hemorrhage with hypovolemic shock may include the above findings, plus:
(a) Bruising indicates bleeding into the skin (soft tissues).
(b) Tenderness or rigidity of the abdomen or pelvis.
(c) Coughing up blood (hemoptysis).
(d) Vomiting blood the color of coffee grounds or bright red (hematemesis); the blood may be
mixed with food.
(e) Passing of feces with a black, tarry appearance (melena) or the passing of bright red blood
through the rectum.
3. Provide Treatment for Hemorrhage
a. Hemorrhage control.
(1) Direct pressure is the quickest method to control bleeding. Applying pressure directly to the
wound usually controls bleeding; keep in mind that in a tactical environment, the use of
temporary tourniquets will be the treatment of choice for controlling rapid or massive bleeding
on the battlefield.

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1 November 2005
(a) First, assess the tactical situation.
(b) Expose the wound, use direct pressure with your hand or apply a pressure dressing until the
bleeding has stopped.
(c) The Emergency Trauma Dressing (ETD), a.k.a., the "Emergency Bandage" or "Israeli
Dressing" has been found to be effective.
b. Tourniquets.
(1) Life threatening hemorrhage (traumatic amputation) may require the use of a tourniquet to
control hemorrhage. Do not waste time trying to control it with direct pressure. In a combat
scenario under enemy fire, a tourniquet is the initial choice to stop major extremity
hemorrhage.
(2) Although many civilian pre-hospital texts and other authorities discourage the use of
tourniquets, tourniquets are appropriate and a life-saving measure in combat. Direct pressure
and pressure points are impossible to maintain during casualty transport when under effective
fire.
(3) Tissue and nerve damage is rare if the tourniquet is left in place for less than one hour. During
orthopedic surgery, surgeons routinely apply tourniquets to reduce bleeding and leave them in
place for up to two hours, without any adverse effects to the limb. Longer tourniquet times are
possible without injury, but the longer a tourniquet is left in place, the more likely ischemia or
nerve damage will occur. With massive hemorrhage and amputations, it is better to accept the
small risk of tissue and nerve damage than lose a casualty to blood loss and hypovolemic
shock.
NOTE: 2,500 soldiers died in Viet Nam from blood loss from extremity wounds that had no other injuries.
These were preventable deaths.
(4) Several new tourniquets have been selected to control hemorrhage in combat.
(a) Combat Application Tourniquet (C-A-T): this pre-formed tourniquet is lightweight, easy to
apply and will stop bleeding.
(b) Special Operations Forces Tactical Tourniquet (SOFTT): this tourniquet is similar to the C-A-
T with an aluminum windlass and plastic tri-rings.
(c) Emergency and Military Tourniquet: this is a pneumatic tourniquet with a bladder that inflates
with a pressure valve that is very similar to a blood pressure cuff.
(5) The C-A-T was selected as the primary tourniquet for every soldier.
(a) Combat application Tourniquet: the following steps need to be followed to correctly apply the
C-A-T.
1) Slide the tourniquet over the injured limb and place between the casualty's heart and the
injury.
2) Tighten the self adhering band and fasten it to itself.
3) Twist the windlass until the bleeding stops.
4) Lock the windlass rod into the windlass clip.

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5) For small extremities, continue to adhere the self adhering band beyond the windlass clip.
6) Tighten the windlass strap over the windlass clip and fasten securely to the Velcro.
NOTE: For application to a leg you must use the friction adaptor buckle to prevent the self adhering band
from pulling loose.
(b) The following steps need to be followed to correctly apply the C-A-T to the lower extremity.
1) Utilize the above steps used for upper extremity application.
2) Wrap the self-adhering band through the friction adapter buckle. This prevents the self-
adhering band from loosening during transport.
(c) Special Operations Forces Tactical Tourniquet. The steps for applying the SOFTT are very
similar to the application of the C-A-T.
1) Slide the tourniquet loop over the limb and place it between the casualty's heart and the
injury.
2) Pull the strap tight.
3) Twist (tighten) the windlass until bleeding stops.
4) Latch the windlass with one of the tri-rings.
5) Tighten the safety screw
c. Improvised tourniquet.
(1) If no pre-formed tourniquet is available, manufacture one from a cravat (or other suitable
material).
(a) Place the cravat between the casualty's heart and the injury.
(b) Wrap cravat around extremity; tie a half-knot on the upper surface.
(c) Place a short stick (or other rigid device) on top of the half-knot.
(d) Tie a square knot on top of the stick.
(e) Twist the stick (windlass) to tighten the cravat-tourniquet UNTIL BLEEDING STOPS.
(f) Secure the windlass to prevent it from unwinding.
(2) Principles of tourniquet application.
(a) Do not cover a limb with a tourniquet while evacuating. It is important for the evacuation
asset's medics to be able to see the casualty’s tourniquet while en route to definitive care.
(b) Mark the casualty’s forehead or somewhere obvious on the body with a "T" (with a sharpie
pen) and the time the tourniquet was applied. Document the tourniquet application and time
on the casualty's DD Form 1380 field medical card (FMC).
(c) In combat there may be times, based on the tactical situation, when we should consider
loosening the tourniquet and using more conventional means to control the hemorrhage.

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1) Direct pressure-pressure dressing.
2) HemCon Chitosan Bandage.
3) QuikClot Powder.
(3) Tourniquet removal.
(a) When loosening a tourniquet, do not remove it from the limb.
(b) If the tourniquet has been in place for greater than 6 hours, do not remove.
(c) If fluid resuscitation is required, it should be accomplished before the tourniquet is removed.
(d) Tourniquets are very painful, provide pain medications as needed.
(e) If the tourniquet has been in place for only 1-2 hours, loosening and using other methods to
control hemorrhage can salvage limbs.
(f) Remember: if unable to control hemorrhage by other means re-tighten the tourniquet.
(g) It is better to sacrifice the limb than to lose a life to hemorrhage.
d. Amputation.
(1) Amputations are becoming more common with the continued use of improvised explosive
devices (IEDs).
(2) In the event of a traumatic amputation:
(a) Apply a pressure dressing to cover end of the stump.
(b) Kerlix and 6-inch Ace Wrap for effective pressure dressing.
(c) Rinse the amputated part free of debris.
(d) Wrap loosely in saline-moistened sterile gauze.
(e) Seal the amputated part in a plastic bag or a cravat.
(f) Place it in a cool container; do not allow it to freeze.
(g) Never place an amputated part in water.
(h) Never place an amputated part directly on ice.
(i) Never use dry ice to cool an amputated part.
e. Hemostatic agents.
(1) Two new hemostatic agents are available for use on the battlefield: the HemCon® Chitosan
Bandage and the QuickClot® Hemostatic Powder.
(a) HemCon Bandage: this bandage is made from shrimp shells (Chitosan paste). There are no
allergy problems with individuals allergic to shrimp or shellfish. It works by sealing the hole in
the injured blood vessel. When the Chitosan paste gets wet with blood or body fluids, the

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1 November 2005
paste becomes extremely sticky like super-glue. It seals the hole in the blood vessel and
prevents the blood from leaking out. Think of it like a "patch" on a bicycle inner tube.
Consequently, the bandage must come in close contact with the bleeding vessel. The steps
for its use are:
1) Hold the foil over-pouch so that instructions can be read. Identify unsealed edges at the
top of the over-pouch.
2) Peel the foil over-pouch open by pulling the unsealed edges apart.
3) Trap the dressing between the bottom foil and the non-absorbable green/black polyester
backing with your hand and thumb.
4) Hold the dressing by the non-absorbable polyester backing and discard the foil over-pouch;
hands must be dry to prevent dressing from sticking to hands.
5) Place the light colored sponge portion of the dressing directly into the wound area with the
most severe bleeding. Apply pressure for 2-4 minutes or until the dressing adheres and
bleeding stops. Once applied and in contact with the blood and other fluids, the dressing
cannot be repositioned.
6) A new dressing should be applied to other exposed bleeding sites; each new dressing must
be in contact with tissue where bleeding is heaviest. Care must be taken to avoid contact
with the casualty's eyes.
7) If the dressing is not effective in stopping the bleeding after 4 minutes, remove the original
dressing and apply a new dressing. Additional dressings cannot be applied over ineffective
dressings.
8) Apply a battle dressing/bandage to secure a hemostatic dressing in place.
9) Hemostatic dressings should only be removed by responsible persons after evacuation to

the next level of care.
(b) QuickClot is a hemostatic powder made from Zeolite that stops bleeding by adsorbing the
liquid portion of the blood, leaving behind the solid products like the blood cells and clotting
factors. This helps to promote a rapid clot. It can produce heat when it mixes with the liquid
in the blood; in fact, temperatures in wounds with QuikClot applied have been measured in
excess of 90 degrees centigrade. It can actually burn tissue. The directions for use are:
1) Warning: avoid contact with wet skin. This product reacts with small amounts of water and
can cause burning. Stop the burning by brushing away granules and flooding the area with
large volume of water. If ingested, immediately drink two or more glasses of water.
2) Directions:
a) 1 - apply direct firm pressure to the wound using a sterile dressing or the best available
substitute.
b) 2 - if bleeding is stopped or nearly stopped after approximately 1 minute of pressure,

wrap and tie a bandage to maintain pressure on the wound.
c) 3 - if moderate to severe bleeding continues, hold pack away from face and tear open at
tabs.

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d) 4 - use wiping motion to remove gauze and excess blood – immediately start a slow
pouring of one QuikClot packet directly onto the wound. Stop pouring as soon as dry
granules cover the wound area.
e) 5 - use only enough QuikClot to stop bleeding. If bleeding continues open a second
packet of QuikClot and continue to use as directed.
f) 6 - reapply firm pressure to the QuikClot-covered wound using sterile gauze. Wrap and
tie a bandage to maintain pressure.
4. Practical Exercise 1 - See page PE-27, DCMT10025 Control Bleeding using an Emergency
Trauma Dressing (ETD).
5. Practical Exercise 2 - See page PE-31, DCMT10026 Control Bleeding using an Improvised Device
6. Practical Exercise 3 - See page PE-35, DCMT10027 Control Bleeding using a Combat Application
Tourniquet (C-A-T).
7. Practical Exercise 4 - See page PE-39, DCMT10028 Control Bleeding using a HemCon Chitosan
Bandage.
8. Practical Exercise 5 - See page PE-43, DCMT10029 Control Bleeding using QuickClot Hemostatic
Powder.

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1 November 2005
F. C191W6TC/1 CMAST: Hypovolemic Shock Management
Given a casualty or casualties with significant life-threatening injuries, under simulated combat conditions
and an M-5 medical aid bag stocked with a basic load, perform appropriate measures to establish
intravenous or intraosseous access and treat the casualty for hypovolemic shock. Perform all measures
IAW the concepts and principles of Tactical Combat Casualty Care and the Combat Medic Advanced
Skills Training (CMAST) program.
Introduction
Basic lifesaving steps for the soldier medic include clearing the airway/restoring breathing, stopping the
bleeding, protecting the wound, and treating/preventing shock. These are the A-B-C measures that apply
to all injuries. Certain types of wounds and burns will require special precautions and procedures when
applying these measures. This lesson provides specific information on preventing shock and providing
fluid resuscitation.
1. Intravenous Access
a. Fluid resuscitation.
(1) The goal of managing hypovolemic shock is to increase tissue perfusion and oxygenation
status. Treatment is directed at providing adequate oxygenation and ventilation. STOPPING
THE BLEEDING must be the priority before any fluid resuscitation is attempted.
(a) Circulation and hemorrhage control priorities include controlling severe hemorrhage
immediately, obtaining intravenous access and assessing tissue perfusion.
(b) If the casualty has a significant injury, initiate a single 18 gauge catheter in a peripheral vein
and place a saline lock on it. If no significant injury exists, parenteral fluids are not required
but the casualty should be encouraged to drink oral fluids, as most are somewhat
dehydrated.
(2) If unable to initiate peripheral IV access, consider initiating a sternal Intraosseous (IO) line.
(a) The sternum is protected by body armor and the cortex of the bone is much thinner than the
tibia. Many injuries are to the lower extremities.
(b) Indications:
1) Inadequate peripheral access.
2) Need for rapid access for medications, fluid or blood.
3) Failed attempts at peripheral or central venous access.
(c) F.A.S.T.1 not recommended if:
1) Casualty is of small stature:
a) Weight of less than 50 kg.
b) Pathological small size.
2) Fractured manubrium/sternum – flail.
3) Significant tissue damage at site.

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1 November 2005
4) Severe osteoporosis.
5) Previous sternotomy and/or scar.
(d) Flow capabilities.
1) 30 ml/min by gravity.
2) 125 ml/min utilizing pressure infusion.
3) 250 ml/min using syringe forced infusion.
b. Administering blood.
(1) Blood is 4 times more viscous than NaCl.
(2) Result is 1/4 normal rate of flow when administering blood using gravity.
(3) Infusion catheter internal pressure during gravity infusion = ~75 mm Hg.
(4) Catheter can take up to 1,500 mmHg.
(5) Solution? Use pressure infusion.
(6) The F.A.S.T.1 is a short term device and should not be left in place for more than 24 hours .
c. Perpendicular insertion.
(1) F.A.S.T.1 must be inserted perpendicular to the surface of the manubrium.
(2) Device penetrates bone only 6 mm.
(3) Perpendicular relationship to the surface of the manubrium is critical for the catheter to enter
the marrow space.
(4) Rich vasculature drains manubrium… F.A.S.T.1 is equivalent to peripheral intravenous infusion.
(5) Insertion.
(a) Confirm landmarks.
1) The manubrium is the upper (superior) aspect of the sternal structure.
2) It articulates with the body of the sternum at the "Angle of Louis."
3) Note that there are three (3) planes relative to the casualty.
a) Surface of the ground.
b) Surface of body of the sternum.
c) Surface of the manubrium.
4) The "manubrium surface angle" is your point of focus.
5) Perpendicular means at a right angle (90 degrees) to the surface of the manubrium.

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(b) Prepare the site using aseptic technique.
1) Betadine.
2) Alcohol.
(c) Place your index finger at the suprasternal notch.
(d) Align your finger with the patch indentation.
(e) Emplace the patch.
(f) Place the introducer needle cluster in the target area.
1) Assure you have a firm grip.
2) Introducer device must be perpendicular to the surface of the manubrium.
(g) Insert using increasing pressure until the device releases (~20-30 pounds).
NOTE: If more force than that is needed, it’s not perpendicular.
(h) Maintain perpendicular alignment to the manubrium throughout the insertion procedure.
(i) Following device release, the infusion tube separates from introducer.
(j) Remove the introducer by pulling straight back. Cap the introducer using the post -use cap
supplied.
(k) Connect the infusion tube to the tube on the target patch.
(l) Assure patency by use of a syringe. Administer a 5 ml blast of normal saline; will clear any
tissue debris in the infusion catheter.
(m) Connect the IV line to the target patch tube; open the IV line and ensure a good flow of the
solution.
(n) Emplace the dome over the site.
(o) Be certain that remover device is attached to (and transported with) the casualty.
(6) Problem areas:
(a) Infiltration - usually due to the insertion not being perpendicular to the manubrium.
(b) Inadequate flow or no flow:
1) Infusion tube occluded.
2) Use 5 ml of normal saline flush recommended.
3) Infusion catheter inserted at other than a perpendicular angle to the manubrium surface.
d. Removal procedure.
(1) Stabilize the target patch with one hand; remove the dome with your other hand.

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(2) Terminate the IV fluid flow.
(3) Disconnect the infusion tube.
(4) Hold the infusion tube perpendicular to the manubrium.
(5) Maintain slight traction on infusion tube.
(6) Insert the remover while continuing to hold the infusion tube in slight traction.
(7) Advance the remover.
NOTE: THIS IS A THREADED DEVICE.
(8) Gentle counterclockwise movement at first may help in seating the remover. Make sure you
feel the threads seat.
(9) Turn it clockwise until the remover no longer turns. This firmly engages the remover into the
metal (proximal) end of the infusion tube.
(10) Remove the infusion tube. Use only the “T” shaped knob and pull the tube perpendicular to
the manubrium. Hold the target patch during removal. Do not pull on the Luer fitting or the
tube itself.
(11) Remove the target patch.
(12) Dress the infusion site using aseptic technique.
(13) Dispose of the remover and infusion tube using contaminated sharps protocol.
(14) Problems encountered during removal procedure.
(a) Performed properly…should be none!
(b) Be certain the threads on the remover engage threads at distal end of the infusion catheter.
(c) Moving the remover around with the tip as an axis while in the infusion catheter may shear off
the end of the removal tool.
(d) If the removal fails or the proximal metal ends separates:
1) Anesthetize the area with a local anesthetic; make a small incision.
2) Remove the metal end using a hemostat (clamp) and close the incision as appropriate.
NOTE: This is considered a “serious injury” as defined by the FDA and is a reportable event.
2. Resuscitation of the Hypotensive Casualty
a. Resuscitation solutions. Different types of IV fluids can be used for different medical conditions.
b. These solutions are generally categorized as colloid or crystalloid.
(1) Colloids: contain protein, sugar or other high molecular weight molecules; used to expand
intravascular volume. Examples:
(a) Whole blood (most common).

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(b) Packed red blood cells (PRBC).
(c) Fresh frozen plasma (FFP).
(d) Plasma Protein Fraction (PPF).
(e) Hypertonic Saline & Dextran (HSD).
(f) Hextend is a 6% hetastarch-solution in a balanced electrolyte solution.
(2) Crystalloids: solutions that do not contain protein or other large molecules; sodium (Na+) is the
primary osmotic agent. These fluids do not remain in the vascular spaces very long.
Examples:
(a) Normal Saline (NS, 0.9% NaCl).
(b) Lactated Ringers (LR).
c. Fluid Distribution: fluids are distributed throughout the body in several different spaces and the
body continually works to maintain equilibrium within these spaces. The average adult male has
approximately 42 liters of fluid within the body; it is distributed as follows:
(1) Intracellular space = 2/3 of body weight.
(2) Extracellular space = 1/3 of body weight.
(a) Interstitial space - 80%.
(b) Vascular space - 20%.
d. Fluids.
(1) 1,000ml of Ringers Lactate (2.4lbs) will expand the intravascular volume by 200-250 ml within
one (1) hour. Sodium is the primary osmotic agent in RL and will not remain in the vascular
system very long. It diffuses out into the interstitial space and eventually into the intracellular
space. This fluid is better for treating dehydration.
(2) 500ml of Hextend® weighs 1.3lbs will expand the intravascular volume by 800ml within one (1)
hour and will sustain this expansion for up to 8 hours. Hextend is a large sugar molecule that
remains in the vascular system for a much longer time; it also pulls additional fluid from the
interstitial space and will hold this fluid in the vascular space for a longer time. This fluid is
better for treating hypovolemia secondary to blood loss.
e. Resuscitation indicators.
(1) The blood pressure is commonly used to determine who needs fluid resuscitation.
Stethoscopes and blood pressure cuffs are rarely available or useful to the front line soldier
medic in the typically noisy and chaotic battlefield environment.
(2) A palpable radial pulse and normal mentation are adequate and tactically relevant resuscitation
endpoints to either start or stop fluid resuscitation. Both can be adequately assessed in noisy
and chaotic situations without mechanical devices.
(3) Casualties should only be resuscitated to a systolic BP of 80 mmHg. This blood pressure is
adequate to perfuse all vital organs and yet, not high enough to cause a possible re-bleed of a

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vessel that has already clotted. This re-bleeding can occur with a BP as low as approximately
93 mmHg.
(4) The systolic blood pressure may be approximated by palpating pulses in specific areas:
(a) A palpable carotid pulse = at least 60 mmHg.
(b) A palpable femoral pulse = at least 70 mmHg.
(c) A palpable radial pulse = at least 80 mmHg.
f. Fluid Resuscitation Algorithm.
(1) Superficial wounds (> 50% of injured): no immediate intravenous fluids required; oral fluids
should be encouraged.
(2) Any significant extremity or truncal wound (neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis) with or without
obvious blood loss or hypotension. If the casualty is coherent and has a palpable radial pulse,
blood loss has likely stopped. Initiate a saline lock, hold fluids and re-evaluate as frequently as
the situation will allow. Have the casualty sip on small quantities of water to assist hydration
status (unless the casualty is nauseated).
(3) Significant blood loss from any wound where the soldier has no palpable radial pulse or is not
coherent.
(a) STOP THE BLEEDING by all means at your disposal (tourniquet, direct pressure, pressure
dressing, hemostatic dressing, hemostatic powder, etc.). Many of these hypotensive
casualties suffer from truncal injuries which are unaffected by these resuscitative measures
(casualty may have lost as much as 1,500 ml of blood or 30% of their circulating volume).
(b) Once hemorrhage has been controlled to the extent possible, initiate IV access and
administer 500 ml of Hextend. If the mental status improves and the radial pulse returns,
maintain a saline lock and hold fluids. If there's no response observed within 30 minutes,
administer an additional 500 ml of Hextend and monitor the vital signs. If no response is
seen after 1,000 ml of Hextend has been administered, you may need to consider rationing
your resources and turning your attention to more salvageable casualties.
NOTE: Remember, a liter of Hextend is equivalent to more than 6 liters of Ringers Lactate. If a
casualty’s pulse does not return after 1 liter of Hextend, the casualty is probably continuing to
bleed internally. This casualty needs a rapid evacuation to a surgical facility for hemorrhage
control. If we continue to give large amounts of fluids to a casualty who continues to bleed, we
can speed the loss of the remaining red blood cells. This occurs by diluting the blood’s natural
ability to clot and by raising the blood pressure. Doing so will actually cause the wound to bleed
faster; consequently, we only want to raise the blood pressure high enough to perfuse all the vital
organs - but not enough to promote more rapid hemorrhage.
g. Hypothermia prevention.
(1) Care must be taken to protect the casualty from Hypothermia. Casualties who are hypovolemic
become hypothermic quite rapidly if traveling in a Casevac or Medevac asset and are not
protected from the wind, regardless of the ambient temperature.
(2) Casualties who become hypothermic develop the vicious triad:
(a) Hypothermia.

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(b) Acidosis.
(c) Coagulopathy.
(3) When these three elements are present, the casualty’s blood will not clot. Most of these
casualties need surgery to repair their wounds, but if their blood will not clot, they must undergo
a transfusion to augment their blood with fresh blood or clotting factors or platelets. This can
delay the life-saving surgery they need.
(4) Prevention is the best method.
(a) In cold environments, ensure IV fluids are warmed prior to administration. The use of MRE
heaters on either side of an IV bag or a blood box with a hole cut in it and a light bulb to
provide heat will help warm IV fluids.
(b) Prior to evacuation, casualties must be wrapped in a blanket to prevent heat loss during
transport (even if the temperature is 120F).
(c) Protect the casualty by wrapping them in a protective wrap (Blizzard Rescue Wrap® ).
(5) All of these tasks and products help to prevent hypothermia from developing in casualties that
have become hypovolemic, regardless of ambient temperature. Prevention of hypothermia is
extremely important even if the ambient temperature is above 100F.
3. Practical Exercise 1 - See page PE-47, DCMT10019 Initiate an Intravenous Infusion.
4. Practical Exercise 2 - See page PE-53, DCMT10030 Initiate a Saline Lock.
5. Practical Exercise 3 - See page PE-59, DCMT10031 Initiate an Intraosseous Infusion (F.A.S.T.1).
6. Practical Exercise 4 - See page PE-63, DCMT10033 Hypotensive Resuscitation.

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G . C191W7TC/ CMAST: Battlefield Casualty Evacuation
Given a casualty or casualties with injuries requiring evacuation under simulated combat conditions, an
M-5 medical aid bag stocked with a basic load, and a variety of litters (both assault and improvised)
Perform all measures and movements IAW the concepts and principles of Tactical Combat Casualty Care
and the Combat Medic Advanced Skills Training (CMAST) program Package the casualty for safe
evacuation using improvised litters or various commercial assault litters available on the battlefield
Introduction
When casualties are injured on the battlefield, frequently there are no conventional litters available to load
them onto until the evacuation asset arrives and off-loads a standard litter. This may cause a delay in
packaging the casualty and loading them on the evacuation asset. This can be dangerous to care
providers and evacuation assets alike. If casualties are pre-packaged and ready for evacuation when the
transport vehicle arrives, it will expedite loading and rapid transport of the injured soldier. In this lesson,
we will look at different types of litters in use on the battlefield today.
1. Improvised Litters
a. There are times when a standard litter is not immediately available to transport casualties.
(1) Short distances - manual carries?
(2) Long distances - improvised litters.
NOTE: Manual carries and improvised litters are intended to end at the point where a more sophisticated
means of evacuation becomes available; for example, manual evacuation should end when a
litter or other form of conveyance is available. Casualties evacuated by manual means must be
handled carefully; rough or improper handling may cause further injury to the casualty.
b. Litters can be improvised from materials at hand; however, they must be well constructed.
c. Improvised litters are emergency measures; used in the place of manual carries if the casualty
must be moved a long distance or if manual carries will cause further injury.
2. Assault Litters
a. SKEDCO Litter (NSN 6530-01-260-1227).
(1) SKEDCO Litters come in several different sizes: full Sked, Ranger Sked, Collapsible Sked, and
Military Half-Sked.
(2) They all consist of different sizes of plastic sheets that are unrolled and flattened to load a
casualty for transport.
(3) The casualty is secured to the SKEDCO litter by nylon straps.
(4) Each of the SKEDCO litters is equipped with carrying handles and a drag rope.
(5) Each litter comes with a carrying case for transport and is light enough to be carried into the
field by a squad member.
(6) This litter allows a casualty to be transported much easier for long distances rather than trying
to carry the casualty utilizing one or two man carries for any distance.
(7) The disadvantage of the SKEDCO series of litters is that a casualty may be dragged along the
ground which could be difficult for casualties with lower limb fractures.
b. SKEDCO Litter instructions.
(1) Remove the SKEDCO litter from the pack and place it on the ground.

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(2) Unfasten the retainer strap, step on foot-end of the SKEDCO and unroll it completely. Bend the
SKEDCO in half and roll it back on itself; repeat on the opposite end. The SKEDCO litter will
now lay flat.
(3) Place the SKEDCO litter next to the casualty. Ensure the head end of the litter (drag-line) is
adjacent to the head of the casualty. Place the cross-straps under the SKEDCO.
(4) Log-roll the casualty and slide the SKEDCO litter as far underneath them as possible. Gently
roll the casualty onto the SKEDCO litter.
(5) Adjust the casualty until they are centered on the SKEDCO litter; be certain to keep the
casualty's spinal column as straight as possible during all movement.
(6) Pull the straps out from underneath the SKEDCO litter.
(7) Lift the sides of the SKEDCO litter and fasten the four cross-straps to the buckles directly
opposite the straps.
(8) Lift the foot-end of the SKEDCO litter and feed the foot straps through the unused grommets;
fasten to the buckles.
NOTE: The drag line is attached to the head portion of the SKEDCO litter and is used to transport the
casualty off the battlefield.
c. Talon II Litter (NSN 6530-01-452-1651).
(1) The Talon II Litter comes in two sizes: 81 cm and 90 cm models.
(2) The 81 cm litter can fit into a UH-60 helicopter sideways with the doors closed; the 90 cm
model is the same length as the standard litter and will fit all NATO litter stanchions.
(3) The nylon material on the litter is similar to the decontamination litter and is easily cleaned.
(4) A carrying case (6530-01-504-9056) can be ordered to carry the litter onto the battlefield. This
"litter carrier" is a component of the Warrior Aid and Litter Kit (WALK) discussed earlier.
(5) The advantage of the Talon II Litter is that it provides a stable evacuation platform for
evacuating seriously injured casualties.
d. Talon II Litter instructions.
(1) Remove the litter from the litter carrier.
(2) Stand the litter upright and release the buckles.
(3) Place the litter on the ground and completely extend the litter with the fabric side up.
NOTE: When the litter is in this relaxed position, the hinges of the litter will face either up or down.
(4) Keeping the Talon litter as straight as possible, grab the handles and rotate them inward until
all of the hinges rotate and lock.
NOTE: When the litter is in this position, the hinges of the litter will face to the right and left; if the hinges
are not in this position the litter will not lock in place.

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(5) While maintaining hinges in the locked position, apply firm steady pressure on the spreader bar
with your foot. Increase pressure on the spreader bar until it locks into place.
(6) The litter is now ready for casualty loading and transport.
NOTE: To close and store the litter, simply repeat the directions in reverse.
3. Packaging a Casualty for Evacuation
a. 91W soldier medic training and combat lifesaver (CLS) training contain many one and two-person
carries for evacuating casualties from the battlefield; however, the weight of the current soldier,
together with all their gear (may be in excess of 250 lbs) may be too heavy to effectively move
casualties by these methods.
b. Any delay in loading a casualty into the evacuation asset, whether a ground or air asset, places
the soldiers on the ground and the asset in jeopardy. We want casualties to be packaged and
ready for transport when the evacuation asset arrives.
c. Each of the litters we have discussed are capable of being carried onto the battlefield by
individual squad members and used as needed for evacuation of injured soldiers. Many units are
currently using these litters for evacuation of their casualties.
d. Ensure these casualties are protected from hypothermia. Wrapping the casualty in a space
blanket, the "Blizzard Safety Wrap" or other protective wrap will help prevent heat loss and a
potentially fatal hypothermia from developing. This is especially true in air evacuation casualties.
4. Practical Exercise 1 - See page PE-68, DCMT10032 Package a Casualty for Transport.

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H. C191W8TC/1 CMAST: Casualty Triage
Given a multiple casualties with significant life-threatening injuries and a standardized medical aid bag
stocked with a basic load, under simulated battlefield conditions, perform initial trauma assessments to
determine the priority of the casualty and communicate the casualty's status to the next echelon of care.
Performed initial assessments and triage measures IAW the concepts and principles of Tactical Combat
Casualty Care and the Combat Medic Advanced Skills Training (CMAST) program.
Introduction
A firm understanding of triage principles and techniques will help the soldier medic maximize resources
and reduce complications. In this lesson, we will identify the steps in performing triage of combat
casualties. Given this knowledge, the soldier medic should be able to manage multiple casualties on the
battlefield
1. Treatment and Evacuation Principles
a. Mass casualty (MASCAL) situations occur when the number of casualties exceeds the available
medical capability to rapidly treat and evacuate them.
(1) The actual number of casualties required before a MASCAL situation is declared, varies from
situation to situation depending upon the availability of medical resources.
(2) Technically, a MASCAL situation occurs if a soldier medic has to manage more than one
seriously injured soldier at one time.
b. Casualty triage.
(1) A system used for categorizing and sorting casualties according to the type and seriousness of
the injury, likelihood of survival and the establishment of priorities of treatment and evacuation.
(2) Triage ensures that medical resources are used to provide care for the greatest benefit to the
largest number of casualties. AFFORD THE GREATEST NUMBER OF CASUALTIES THE
GREATEST CHANCE OF SURVIVAL.
(a) Survey and classify casualties for the most efficient use of available medical personnel,
supply capabilities and evacuation assets.
(b) Ensures treatment is directed first towards the casualties who have the best likelihood of
survival.
(c) Locate troops that have sustained minor wounds and return them to duty.
CAUTION:Triage establishes the order of treatment, not whether treatment is given, regardless of the
injury. Triage is usually the responsibility of the senior medical person. Casualties may not
always fit into nice, neat, convenient categories of triage or into priorities for evacuation. It is
therefore incumbent upon the senior medical person present to attempt to triage to the best of
their ability and medical experience.
c. Determine the tactical and environmental situation.
(1) Necessity to transport casualties to a more secure collection point for treatment.
(2) Number and location of the injured.
(3) Severity of injuries.
(4) Assistance available: buddy-aid, self-aid, medical personnel.

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(5) Evacuation support capabilities and requirements (i.e., air ambulance, ground transportation
assets).
(6) Re-supply capabilities
d. Establishing triage, treatment and holding areas. Depending on the tactical situation or the
location of the MASCAL, the triage, treatment and holding areas may be established in the
existing medical treatment facility (MTF), an available shelter or outdoors.
(1) When the existing MTF is used:
(a) The triage area should afford easy access for incoming litter bearer teams, ground and air
ambulances and non-medical transportation assets. Sufficient space must be allocated for
ambulance turn around to ensure a smooth traffic flow. These requirements are normally met
with the established layout of the MTF; however, depending upon the number of casualties
being received, additional space may be required to accommodate the casualty flow.
(b) Litter stands should be established (such as sawhorses supporting litters) for placing
casualties to be triaged. At a minimum, two should be established.
(c) Fluid Replacement is initiated in the triage area, if required. The flow of wounded into the
triage area must be controlled. An increase in the noise level and confusion can result if too
many casualties are brought into the triage area at one time. These factors can adversely
impact on the ability of the medical personnel to thoroughly evaluate and prioritize each
casualty.
(d) Specific areas within the MTF are designated for each of the triage categories, personnel
pools and control elements. Additionally, internal traffic routes to the x-ray area, the
laboratory area and the preoperative, recovery and holding areas (if augmented by a surgical
detachment or if the MTF has an organic surgical squad) must be identified. Surgical
procedures are limited only to those required to save a life and stabilize non-transportable
casualties for evacuation.
(e) Ideally, holding areas for each of the four-triage categories should be established. Each area
should be clearly identified and the route to that area marked. Marking can be accomplished
with the use of different color panels or a numbering system. Each area can be designated
as a specific color or number and the route to that area marked accordingly. The marking
system used should function during times of good visibility as well as times of limited visibility
(such as at night or during blackout conditions). Casualty triage tags, which correlate with the
color or numbering system, can be used. Alternatively, the field medical card (FMC) can be
marked with the appropriate color or number (this may be less desirable since status may
fluctuate).
(2) In some instances, a MASCAL station may be required to be established outdoors:
(a) When this occurs, efficient use of overhead cover and available shade is essential. Unless
inclement weather occurs, the triage area and the MINIMAL treatment area remain outdoors.
(b) The triage area must be accessible to incoming vehicles and provide sufficient space for the
turn around of the vehicles. It should also not be established too far away from the treatment
areas, as the distance will place an additional burden on the litter bearers.
(c) Once triaged, casualties should be brought inside an improvised shelter as soon as possible.
The use of improvised shelters or the use of cover (such as caves or abandoned buildings)
may be required until more appropriate shelters can be obtained or established.

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(3) It is important to remember to establish separate triage areas for contaminated casualties
2. Triage Categories
a. Triage (or sorting) is the process of prioritizing or rank-ordering wounded soldiers on the basis of
their individual needs for medical or surgical intervention. The likely outcome of the individual
casualty must be factored into the decision process prior to the commitment of limited medical
resources.
b. Casualties are generally sorted into four categories (or priorities):
REMEMBER: TRIAGE IS AN ONGOING PROCESS OF REASSESSMENT WHICH MAY CHANGE THE

CASUALTIES' TRIAGE CATEGORY.
c. Conventional battlefield casualties.
(1) Immediate: casualty whose condition demands immediate resuscitative treatment to save their
life. Casualties in this category present with severe, life threatening wounds. Generally the
procedures used to correct these conditions are short in duration and economical in terms of
medical resources. Casualties within this group have a high likelihood of survival. This
category has the highest priority. Approximately 20% of casualties are normally in this
category. After a casualty with a life-threatening condition has been stabilized, no further
treatment (non-life/limb-threatening) will be required until other "immediate" casualties have
been treated. Salvage of life takes priority over salvage of limb. Examples of the immediate
category are:
(a) Airway obstruction.
(b) Open pneumothorax (sucking chest wound) with respiratory distress.
(c) Tension pneumothorax.
NOTE: Cardiorespiratory distress may not be considered an immediate condition on the battlefield. It
would most likely be classified as expectant contingent upon the mission, the battlefield
situation, number of casualties, support, etc.
(d) Unstable abdominal wounds with the presence of shock.
(e) Massive external bleeding e.g., amputation.
(f) Open fractures of long bones.
(g) Hypovolemic (hemmorhagic) shock.
(h) Burns of the face, neck, hands, feet, or perineum and genitalia or second or third degree
burns of 15-40% or more of the total body surface area (TBSA).
(2) Delayed: casualties who have less risk of losing life or limb by treatment being delayed.
Casualties in the delayed category can tolerate delay prior to intervention without unduly
compromising the likelihood of a successful outcome. When medical resources are
overwhelmed, soldiers in this category are held until the immediate cases are cared for.
Approximately 20% of casualties are normally in this category. Examples of the delayed
category are:
(a) Open chest wound (without respiratory distress).

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(b) Abdominal wounds (without shock).
(c) Eye injuries.
(d) Soft tissue wounds requiring debridement (removal of foreign material and dead or damaged
tissue). All combat wounds will require some form of debridement.
(e) Fractures.
(f) Second (partial thickness) and third (full thickness) degree burns (not involving the face,
hands, feet, genitalia, and perineum) covering 20% or more of TBSA.
(g) Maxillofacial wounds without airway compromise.
(h) Genitourinary tract disruption.
(3) Minimal: "walking wounded" (or ambualatory), can be managed through self-aid or buddy-aid.
This category is comprised of casualties with wounds that are so superficial, they require no
more than cleansing, minimal debridement under local anesthesia, administration of tetanus
toxoid, and first-aid dressings. They must be rapidly directed away from the triage area to un-
congested areas where first aid and non-specialty medical personnel are available.
Approximately 40% of casualties are in this category. Examples of the minimal category are:
(a) Minor lacerations and abrasions.
(b) Contusions.
(c) Sprains and strains.
(d) Minor combat stress problems.
(e) Burns first or second degree under 15% of TBSA and not involving critical areas such as
hands, feet, face, genitalia, or perineum.
(f) Casualties in this category are not usually evacuated to an MTF.
(g) Upper extremity fractures without neurovascular compromise.
(h) Behavioral disorders or other obvious psychiatric disturbances.
(i) Suspicion of blast injury (ruptured TMs).
(j) Symptomatic but unquantified radiation exposure.
(4) Expectant: casualties so critically injured that only complicated and prolonged treatment offers
any hope of improving life expectancy. Casualties in the expectant category have wounds that
are so extensive that even if they were the sole casualty and had the benefit of optimal medical
resources application, their survival would be very unlikely. During a MASCAL situation, this
type of casualty would require an unjustifiable expenditure of limited resources that are more
wisely applied to several other more salvageable soldiers. The expectant casualties should be
separated from the view of other casualties; however, they should not be abandoned. Above
all, one attempts to make them comfortable by whatever means necessary and to provide
attendance. Approximately 20% of casualties are normally in this category. Examples of the
expectant category are:
(a) Unresponsive casualties with penetrating head wounds and signs of impending death.

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(b) Burns, mostly third degree, covering more than 60% of TBSA.
(c) Cervical spinal cord injuries.
(d) Mutilating explosive wounds involving multiple anatomical sites and organs.
(e) Profound shock with multiple injuries.
(f) Agonal respirations.
(g) Convulsions and vomiting within 24 hours of radiation exposure.
d. Integrated battlefield casualties. The presence of chemical biological, radiological, neurological

(CBRN) threats have to be taken into account when establishing casualty priorities of treatment.
(1) Immediate: conventional life threats; no CBRN threat.
(2) Delayed: no conventional life threats; mild chemical threat.
(3) Minimal: minor conventional injuries; no chemical threat.
(4) Expectant: conventional life threats; severe chemical threat.

3. Prioritize Casualties by MEDEVAC Category
a. Priority 1: Evacuation Category - Urgent:
(1) Assigned to emergency cases that should be evacuated as soon as possible and within a
maximum of two (2) hours in order to save life, limb or eyesight, to prevent complication of
serious illness, or to avoid permanent disability.
(2) Examples include:
(a) Casualties condition(s) cannot be controlled and have the greatest opportunity for survival.
(b) Cardiorespiratory distress.
(c) Shock state not responding to intravenous fluid therapy.
(d) Prolonged unconsciousness.
(e) Head injuries with signs of increasing ICP.
(f) Burns covering 20% to 85% of TBSA.
b. Priority IA: Evacuation Category - Urgent Surgical:
(1) Assigned to casualties who must receive far forward surgical intervention to save life and
stabilize them for further evacuation.
(a) Decreased circulation in the extremities.
(b) Open chest and/or abdominal wounds with decreased blood pressure.
(c) Penetrating wounds.

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(d) Uncontrollable bleeding or open fractures with severe bleeding.
(e) Severe facial injuries.
(f) Burns on the hands, feet, genitalia, or perineum; even if under 20% TBSA.
c. Priority II: Evacuation Category - Priority:
(1) Assigned to sick and wounded personnel requiring prompt medical care. This evacuation
precedence is used when the casualty should be evacuated within four (4) hours or their
medical condition could deteriorate to such a degree that they will become an "urgent"
precedence, or whose requirements for special treatment are not available locally, or who will
suffer unnecessary pain or disability.
(a) Closed-chest injuries.
(b) Brief periods of unconsciousness.
(c) Soft tissue injuries and open or closed fractures.
(d) Abdominal injuries with no decreased blood pressure.
(e) Eye injuries that do not threaten eyesight.
(f) Spinal injuries.
d. Priority III: Evacuation Category - Routine:
(1) Assigned to sick and wounded personnel requiring evacuation but whose condition is not
expected to deteriorate significantly. The sick and wounded in this category should be
evacuated within twenty-four (24) hours.
(a) Simple fracture.
(b) Open wounds including chest injuries without respiratory distress.
(c) Psychiatric cases.
(d) Terminal cases.
e. Priority IV: Evacuation Category - Convenience:
(1) Assigned to casualties for whom evacuation by medical vehicle is a matter of medical
convenience rather than medical necessity.
(a) Minor open wounds.
(b) Sprains and strains.
(c) Minor burns under 20% of TBSA.

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f. Prepare a standard nine-line medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) request.
(1) Line 1: Pickup location.
(2) Line 2: Radio frequency, call sign and suffix.
(3) Line 3: Number of casualties by precedence (evacuation) category.
(4) Line 4: Special equipment required (if any).
(5) Line 5: Number of casualties by type (ambulatory vs. litter).
(6) Line 6: Security of pickup site (wartime); number/type of wounded, injured or illness
(peacetime).
(7) Line 7: Method of marking the pickup site.
(8) Line 8: Casualty's nationality and status.
(9) Line 9: NBC contamination (wartime); terrain description (peacetime).
(a) NBC (CBRN) contamination, if any - otherwise omit this line.
(b) Terrain description including details of terrain features in and around proposed landing site.
NOTE: As a minimum, the first five items must be provided in the exact sequence listed.
4. Practical Exercise 1 - See page PE-73, DCMT10034 Perform Casualty Triage.

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I. C191W9TC/1 CMAST: International Humanitarian Law and the Geneva Conventions
Given the information on the rights and duties set forth in the Geneva Conventions , comply with the
provisions of the Law of War and International Humanitarian Law IAW AR 190-8 and the Law of Land
Warfare.
Introduction
Customary international law and lawmaking treaties such as the Geneva and Hague Conventions
regulate the conduct of hostilities on land. The rights and duties set forth in the Conventions are part of
the supreme law of the land. The United States is obligated to adhere to these obligations even when an
opponent does not. DoD and Army policies require that we conduct operations in a manner consistent
with these obligations.
1. History of International Humanitarian Law
a. International humanitarian law (IHL) is the body of rules which, in wartime, protects people who
are not or are no longer participating in the hostilities. Its central purpose is to limit and prevent
human suffering in times of armed conflict.
b. The rules are to be observed by governments, their armed forces, armed opposition groups, and
any other parties to a conflict.
c. The four Geneva Conventions of 1949 establish the humanitarian protections that we apply during
armed conflict.
NOTE: The Geneva Conventions are a series of treaties signed by most nations of the world. The first
Convention, signed in 1864, established rules that protect soldiers who are wounded to the
extent that they can no longer serve as a combatant. The original rules, or conventions, were
expanded over the years and by 1949 included provisions for the protection of: wounded and
sick members of the armed forces on land and sea, shipwrecked members of armed forces,
medical personnel, facilities and equipment, wounded and sick support personnel accompanying
the armed forces, military chaplains, civilians who spontaneously take up arms to repel an
invasion, hospital ships, prisoners of war (POWs)/enemy prisoners of war (EPW), and civilians.
d. The Conventions and their Protocols specifically protect people who do not take part in the
fighting (civilians, medics, chaplains, humanitarian workers and other civilians who are providing
humanitarian assistance) and those who can no longer fight (wounded or sick troops and
POWs/EPWs.
NOTE: Nations that have signed the Geneva Conventions are required to educate their military and the
public about these laws.
NOTE: The International Community of the Red Cross, which has the official role in protecting victims of
war, does not have the power to enforce these rules. The nations that have signed these
conventions are required to enforce the rules themselves and publicize the most serious
violations, known as breaches or war crimes.
NOTE: Most people do not commit serious criminal offenses such as murder or rape. Nor do most
people involved in armed conflicts commit war crimes. Most nations are anxious to show what
they do is lawful according to the standards adopted by the International Community. Few are
prepared to risk international censure. The My Lai massacre of civilians in South Vietnam in
1968 is one example of a breach of the rules. It provoked a public outcry which led to the court-
martial in the United States of Army 1LT William Calley, who was held responsible.
2. Identify Protected Personnel
a. Under the laws of war, certain persons are protected as "noncombatants."
b. Civilians - Civilians and civilian property may not be the subject of a military attack. Civilians are
people who are not members of the enemy's armed forces and do not take part in the hostilities.

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Journalists and members of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) are also given
protection as "civilians."
c. Wounded and Sick in the Field and at Sea - Soldiers who have fallen by reason of sickness or
wounds and who cease to fight are to be respected and protected.
d. Prisoners of War - Surrender may be made by any means that communicates the intent to give
up. There is no clear-cut rule as to what constitutes surrender. However, most agree that
surrender constitutes a cessation of resistance and placement of one's self at the direction of the
captor. Captors must respect (not attack) and protect (care for) those who surrender.
e. Chaplains are considered protected persons.
f. Medical personnel are specifically identified in the 1st Geneva Convention. "Medical personnel
exclusively engaged in the search for, or the collection, transport, or treatment of the wounded
and the sick….shall be respected and protected in all circumstances." This includes permanent
medical personnel (doctors, nurses, PAs, medics) and support personnel.
g. Medical personnel receive two forms of protection under the Geneva Conventions: protection
from attack and protection upon capture.
(1) Protection from attack. The Geneva Convention protects medical personnel because they are
noncombatants. Medical personnel who perform non-medical duties harmful to the enemy lose
their protective status.
(2) Protection upon capture. If captured, medical personnel are considered "retained personnel",
not POWs. Retained personnel:
(a) Can only be required to perform medical duties.
(b) Must receive at least all the benefits conferred on POWs.
(c) May be retained only as long as needed to tend to prisoners of war who are sick and
wounded.
(d) Must be returned when "retention is not indispensable."
(e) Must obey POW camp rules.
3. Identify Types of Protected Medical Facilities and Transports

a. All U.S. medical facilities and transports display the distinctive emblem of the Geneva
Conventions. The emblem consists of a red cross on a white background. It is displayed over
the unit or facility and in other places as necessary to adequately identify the unit or transport as
medical.
NOTE: The symbol of the Red Cross on a white background is the reverse of a Swiss flag in honor of the
origin of this initiative.
b. The Geneva Conventions authorizes the use of the following distinctive emblems on a white
background - Red Cross or Red Crescent. The Red Star of David emblem has not been officially
authorized by the Convention, but is recognized in practice.
NOTE: Other countries have from time to time applied to the International Committee of the Red Cross to
use their particular symbol instead of the Red Cross. For example, a red flame or a red elephant
on a white background, but these applications have been refused. The move is towards limited
numbers and emblems and preferably one. Why do you think this is so?

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1 November 2005
c. A fixed or mobile medical establishment "shall at all times be respected and protected…". This
means they may not be attacked intentionally. Although the enemy may not deliberately target a
hospital, legitimate military targets are fair game. If such military objectives are located right next
to a hospital, the hospital is likely to be inadvertently hit. Protection will not cease, unless they
are used to commit "acts harmful to the enemy." Medical supplies will not be intentionally
destroyed.
d. If possible, do not place medical facilities near military objectives in order to minimize collateral
damage to the medical facility in the event the military objective is attacked.
NOTE: Collateral damage - Damage or loss caused incidentally during an attack undertaken despite all
necessary precautions designed to prevent or minimize loss of civilian life, injury to civilians and
damage to civilian objects.
e. Transports of the wounded and sick or of medical equipment shall not be attacked. Medical
transports include ambulances, medical ships and medical aircraft.
(1) Medical aircraft used exclusively for the removal of the sick and wounded and for the transport
of medical personnel and equipment shall not be attacked, but shall be respected by the
enemy, while it is marked with a distinctive medical emblem and is flying at heights, times, and
on routes specifically agreed upon between the parties concerned.
NOTE: Emphasize that all means of military medical transport, whether permanent or temporary, must be
exclusively assigned to medical purposes in order to be entitled to protection. A convoy carrying
both wounded and able-bodied soldiers or arms, for example, would lose this right, to the
detriment of the wounded.
(2) Medical aircraft shall bear, clearly marked, the distinctive emblem together with their national
colors on their lower, upper, and lateral surfaces.
(3) Unless agreed to otherwise, flights over enemy or enemy-occupied territory are prohibited.
(4) Medical aircraft shall obey every summons to land. In the event that a landing is thus imposed,
the aircraft with its occupants may continue its flight after examination, if any.
(5) In the event of involuntary landing in enemy or enemy-occupied territory, the wounded and sick
as well as the crew of the aircraft, may be prisoners of war; medical personnel will be treated as
designated in the Geneva Conventions.
4. Understanding Self-Defense and Defense of Patients

a. In combat operations, medical personnel are entitled to defend themselves and their patients.
They are only permitted to use small defensive arms against an enemy who might attack them in
violation of the Conventions.
b. The use of or mounting of offensive weapons on dedicated medical evacuation vehicles and
aircraft jeopardizes the protections afforded by the Geneva Conventions. These offensive
weapons can include, but are not limited to: machine guns, grenade launchers, hand grenades,
or anti-tank weapons.
5. Treating and Guarding Detainees

a. Detainee Classification. The DoD definition of the word "detainee" refers to any person captured
or otherwise detained by an armed force. As a matter of policy, all detainees will be treated in
accordance with the principles applicable to enemy prisoners of war unless and until a more
precise legal status is determined.

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1 November 2005
(1) There are 4 categories of detainees listed under the Geneva Conventions. These persons are
entitled to the privileges of the Geneva Conventions.
(a) Enemy Prisoner of War (EPW) - EPW is defined as a detained person as described in the
Geneva Conventions. In particular, one who, while engaged in combat under orders of his or
her government, is captured by the armed forces of the enemy.
(b) Civilian Internee (CI) - A CI is interned during an international armed conflict for security
reasons, for protection, or because they have committed an offense (insurgent, criminal)
against the detaining power.
(c) Retained Person (RP) - Enemy personnel who are medical, chaplains or are in voluntary aid
societies (Red Cross, etc.) are eligible to be considered retained personnel.
(d) Other Detainees (OD) - A person in the custody of U.S. armed forces that have not yet been
classified as an EPW, CI or RP.
(2) In reference to the Global War on Terror (GWOT), there is an additional classification of
detainees who, through their own conduct, are not entitled to the privileges and protection of
the Geneva Conventions. These personnel are classified as enemy combatants (EC). These
people are still entitled to be treated humanely.
NOTE: There is a comprehensive list of terrorists and terrorist groups identified under Executive Order
13224, located at http://www.treas.gov/ofac/. Anyone detained that is affiliated with these
organizations will be classified as EC.
b. Care and Treatment of Detainees.
(1) Our nation's law requires that we afford certain rights to people captured on the battlefield.
They are basic rights, but every disciplined soldier needs to be aware of them. Affording these
protections is also of military value. We also comply with these rules because it helps us on the
battlefield. If the enemy knows we will treat him with dignity and respect, he is more likely to
surrender. We also hope that these rights will be afforded to our soldiers if they should become
prisoners of war.
(2) Always initially treat a captured person as an EPW. Process them according to the "Five Ss":
(a) Search them immediately for weapons, ammunition, equipment, and documents with
intelligence value. EPW/RP will be allowed to retain personal effects of sentimental or
religious value.
(b) Segregate them into groups of enlisted, noncommissioned officers and officers. Individuals
presumed to have intelligence value should be separated immediately from other EPWs.
(c) Silence them. Segregation should prevent prisoners from communicating with each other by
voice or visual means.
(d) Safeguard them. While they are your prisoner, you are responsible for their safety.
(e) Speed them to the rear. The wounded EPW patient is evacuated to the rear as soon as their
medical condition permits. Then:
(f) Tag them.

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1 November 2005
(3) You can fulfill your military mission and still treat these people in a humane manner. Many of
these people will be victims of war, and some may be enemy soldiers, but once captured, they
are entitled to the same humane treatment.
(4) The medical standard of care for detainees is the same as for U.S. forces, IAW the Geneva
Conventions, "Members of the armed forces… who are wounded or sick shall be respected and
protected in all circumstances." They must be treated humanely, be cared for without adverse
distinction founded on sex, race, nationality, religion or similar criteria, and attempts on their
lives shall be strictly prohibited. The Conventions further require that detainees will not be left
without medical assistance and care.
(5) Priority for medical treatment shall be based on the severity of the wound/injury. The most
urgent wounded/sick soldiers will be treated first, regardless of the uniform they are wearing.
(a) Initial Actions upon Capture.
1) Non-injured detainees will be humanely evacuated from the combat zone and into
appropriate channels as quickly as possible. Sick and wounded detainees will be
evacuated separately, but in the same manner as U.S. and allied forces.
2) Body cavity exams or searches may be performed for valid medical reasons with the verbal
consent of the patient. However, these exams should not be performed as part of a routine
intake physical examination. Body cavity searches are to be conducted only when there is
a reasonable belief that the detainee is concealing an item that presents a security risk.
3) If possible, a body cavity exam will be conducted by personnel of the same gender.
(b) Evacuation and Care of Detainees.
1) Those units designated to hold and evacuate detainees will categorize sick and wounded
detainees in their custody as walking or non-walking (litter) wounded. These personnel will
be delivered to the nearest medical facility (MTF) and evacuated through medical channels.
2) Detainees will only be transferred to another MTF if medically stable to do so and will never
be transferred out of country without SECDEF approval.
6. Provide Medical Care Required for Persons in Confinement
a. In-Processing Medical Requirements.
(1) All detainees will receive a screening medical examination during in-processing. This
examination will include a medical history and physical examination, a screening chest X-Ray,
dental screening, mental health screening, and height and weight measurement. As previously
discussed, it will not include a body cavity search unless medically indicated.
(2) This physical screening exam is conducted to detect lice, communicable diseases (TB, STDs),
and to assess overall health, nutritional, and hygiene status.
(3) A medical record will be created during in-processing and all screening information will be
recorded in it. Medical records will accompany detainees throughout the medical system and a
copy will be provided to the detainee upon release, if requested.
(4) Each facility shall provide copies of the applicable Geneva Conventions for detainees in their
own language.
b. Outpatient Care. Sick call for detainees requiring medical attention will be held daily. EPW/RP/CI
will NOT be denied medical care. To the extent possible, detainees will be cared for separately

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1 November 2005
from Coalition Forces and civilians. Every effort should be made to have female health care
providers screen and care for female detainees. MTF staff, to include security personnel, will
maintain a professional appearance and military bearing at all times while working with detainees.
Medical support to Enemy Prisoners of War, (EPW), Retained Personnel (RP), Civilian Internees
(CI) and other detainees includes:
(1) First aid and all sanitary aspects of food service.
(2) Preventive Medicine.
(3) Professional medical services and medical supply.
(4) Coordinating the use of medically trained EPW, CI, RP personnel, and medical material.
c. The United States is bound to take all sanitary measures necessary to ensure clean and healthy
camps to prevent epidemics. Every camp will have an infirmary. Any detainee with a contagious
disease, mental condition, or other illness as determined by the medical officer will be isolated
from the other patients.
NOTE: Detainees have the right to receive the basic necessities to stay in good health. We have an
obligation to reasonably accommodate the food habits of detainees. For example, one should not
provide a person of the Muslim faith with pork. Shelter and clothing should be consistent with the
climate of the AO. For example, if you capture a detainee in Korea during the winter, the U.S. has
an obligation to ensure that the prisoner is properly clo thed. This does not mean that you
must give up equipment to comfort the detainee, but you must find adequate clothing or tell your
chain of command of this need.
d. Detainees will be immunized against other diseases as recommended by the Theater Surgeon.
e. Detainees suffering from serious diseases or whose condition necessitates special treatment,
surgery, or hospital care must be admitted to any military or civilian medical unit where treatment
can be given. Special facilities will be available for the care and the rehabilitation of the disabled.
Detainee evacuation outside the theater of operations requires SECDEF approval.
f. The detaining authorities shall, upon request, issue to every detainee who has undergone
treatment, an official certificate indicating the nature of the injury/illness and the duration and type
of treatment received. A duplicate certificate will be sent to the International Committee of the
Red Cross. The detaining authority will ensure medical personnel complete the appr opriate
medical records - SF 88 (Report of Medical Examination), SF 600 (Chronological Record of
Medical Care) and DA Form 3444 (Treatment Record). Documentation of medical care will occur
at every level of medical care and be transported with the detainee.
NOTE: Per DoD policy, as a general rule the ICRC is the only such organization authorized access to
detainees.
(1) Medical inspections will be held at least once a month, where each detainee will be weighed
and the height recorded. The purpose of these inspections will be to monitor the general state
of health, nutrition and cleanliness of prisoners and to detect contagious diseases (TB, STDs,
HIV, lice).
(2) Camp commanders will conduct periodic and detailed sanitary inspections. Detainees will be
provided with sanitary supplies, service and facilities necessary for their personal cleanliness
and sanitation. Separate latrine facilities will be provided for each gender.
g. Detainees will not be handcuffed or tied, except to ensure safe custody or when prescribed by a
responsible medical officer as needed to control a medical case requiring restraint.

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1 November 2005
h. The inhumane treatment of detainees is prohibited and not justified by the stress of combat or
deep provocation. At no time will detainee medical information be available for interrogation
purposes. Medical personnel must, however, report any information obtained during the course
of medical care which could affect the safety and security of other detainees or Coalition Forces.
i. Detainees will be protected against all acts of violence to include rape, forced prostitution, assault,
theft, and bodily injury. They will not be subjected to medical or scientific experiments.
j. During transport, detainees will have sufficient food and drinking water to keep them in good
health, and will be provided adequate clothing, shelter and medical attention.
k. Personnel resources to guard detainee medical patients are provided by the echelon commander;
medical personnel do not guard detainee patients.
7. Compliance with the Geneva Conventions
a. The U.S. is a party to and signatory of the Geneva Conventions. These Conventions afford
protection for medical personnel, facilities, and evacuation platforms (to include aircraft on the
ground).
b. Violation of these Conventions can result in the loss of protection afforded by them.
c. Obligation to report violations.
(1) Suppose you are given an order such as "Shoot every man, woman and child in sight."
Obviously, this is an unlawful order. What should you do? Try to get the order rescinded.
Remind the person who gave it that it violates the Law of War. If they persist, you must
disregard that order. This takes courage, but if you follow a criminal order, you are responsible
for, and can be tried and punished for committing the crime under the Law of War. Remember
- no one can force you to commit a crime, and you cannot be court-martialed or punished for
refusing to obey an unlawful order.
(2) The lack of courage to disregard a criminal order, or a mistaken fear that you could be court -
martialed for disobedience of an order is no excuse. The Code of Conduct says, "I am an
American fighting [soldier], responsible for my actions and dedicated to the principles [that]
make my country free." The soldier who follows the Code should have no problem identifying
and disobeying criminal orders. If a criminal order results in a violation of the Law of War, then
you must report the violation to the appropriate authorities. Your first and best option is to
report through your chain of command.
(3) You must report any known or suspected violation of the Laws of War. Your first and best
option is to report through your chain of command. Your commander has established
regulations governing reporting procedures. If you fail to follow these procedures, you could be
prosecuted under the UCMJ.
(4) But what do you do if you must report a known or suspected violation by someone in your chain
of command? Other reporting options include:
(a) Local office of the Inspector General.
(b) Office of the Provost Marshal (military police).
(c) Judge Advocate (military lawyer).
(d) A chaplain who can help you report through official channels.

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1 November 2005
d. Regardless of how you decide to report a violation of the Law of War, you should do it at once.
Evidence and witnesses disappear quickly. Also, a prompt investigation is more likely to dispel
any mistaken charges. Even the perception of impropriety can be detrimental to the mission and
U.S. interests.
e. In the past, people have violated these rules, and have been tried and sentenced for such
violations.
8. Protecting Civilians in Wartime
a. Protection for civilians is a basic principle of humanitarian law: Civilians not taking part in the
fighting must on no account be attacked and must be spared and protected.
b. The Geneva Conventions contain specific rules to protect civilians. Specific provisions include
the following:
(1) Pillage, reprisals, indiscriminate destruction of property and the taking of hostages is prohibited.
Civilians are not to be subject to collective punishment or deportation.
(2) The safety, honor, family rights, religious practices, manners and customs of civilians are to be
respected.
(3) Civilians are to be protected from murder, torture or brutality, and discrimination on the basis of
race, nationality, religion or political opinions.
(4) Children who are orphaned or separated from their families must be cared for.
(5) If security allows, civilians must be permitted to lead normal lives.

9. Humanitarian Law Case Studies
a. Suppose you are a soldier in an advance guard which successfully overruns an enemy position.
You come across a medical unit established just behind the lines. What are your duties towards
the medical personnel in the units and the wounded being cared for?
b. You come across two enemy soldiers acting as auxiliary medical personnel carrying a wounded
comrade on a stretcher. How are they to be treated?

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1 November 2005
J. C191WTCL/1 CMAST: Combat Trauma Lanes
Given a casualty or casualties to be assessed, managed and prepared for evacuation, under simulated
combat conditions, and an M-5 medical aid bag stocked with a basic load, perform casualty management
appropriate to care under fire, tactical field care and CASEVAC care phases. Perform all measures IAW
the concepts and principles of Tactical Combat Casualty Care and the Combat Medic Advanced Skills
Training (CMAST) program.
Introduction
This lesson is intended to be accomplished in round-robin fashion. Groups will rotate based on the
number of students to be trained and time allotted in the rotation. This training is performed in a
simulated tactical environment using realistic individual casualty scenarios. The Combat Trauma Lanes
will be trained using mannequins or other soldiers role-playing simulated casualties. Students will
perform the various trauma wounds treatment, triage and/or other treatments required or indicated by the
wound (moulage) inflicted on the casualty or casualties.
1. Assess Combat Casualties and Establish Priorities for Treatment
a. Combat Trauma Lanes (CTL) evaluations conducted under simulated combat conditions are an
excellent means to validate an individual's trauma skills.
b. CTL evaluations are performed using practical exercises and, when properly developed, allow
you to evaluate specific skill sets as well as knowledge base and decision making skills. In
developing these CTL scenarios, keep in mind the following facts:
(1) Choose the individual tasks to be tested. Ideally, the tasks you select should be unit-specific
and METL-driven. Development of CTL must be designed to evaluate specific skills sets.
(a) Do not make the casualty too complicated.
(b) As the student masters individual skills make the scenarios progressively more difficult.
1) Single casualty - single injury - day.
2) Single casualty - multiple injuries - day.
3) Single casualty - single injury - night.
4) Single casualty - multiple injuries - night.
5) Multiple casualties - day/ night.
(c) As the student progresses through the scenario, applying appropriate actions, the casualty
should improve.
(d) If their actions are wrong, the casualty should progressively deteriorate.
NOTE: Each CTL scenario should have appropriate instructor prompts for appropriate mangement and
inappropriate management by the student.
(e) Checklists will need to be developed to objectively evaluate the student's performance.
(f) Critical criteria must be determined to establish a GO/NO-GO performance on the skill
sheets.
(g) Identify supplies and equipment needed for the scenarios.

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1 November 2005
(2) Remember, CTL skills should be pre-written, validated and objective.
2. Combat Trauma Lanes: Sample Scenario
a. The following is a sample scenario involving two (2) combat casualties. Interaction between the
instructor/evaluator and the student will be on-going throughout the session. Please not that one
"casualty" is in fact a mannequin.
b. Sample scenario #1:
(1) History: While on patrol in the city of Fallujah, an infantry squad starts to receive direct small
arms fire followed by a loud explosion. A 19-year-old rifleman falls to the ground and begins to
hold his lower legs. A second squad member begins to complain of pain in his lower leg. The
squad is reacting to contact. The injured soldiers are calling for the soldier medic.
(2) Injuries:
(a) Casualty #1: Partial amputation to the left lower leg at boot top level; multiple fragmentary
wounds to right lower leg.
(b) Casualty #2: Fragmentary wound to right lower leg.
(3) Moulage instructions:
(a) Casualty #1: Mannequin has complete amputation of the left lower leg with arterial bleeding
(leg removed at hinge); right lower leg has 3 each 1-2 mm puncture wounds with small
amount of bleeding.
(b) Casualty #2: Small tear in BDU pants; 2 each 1-2mm puncture wounds to right lower leg with
minimal bleeding.
NOTE: Instructions to casualty #2: be alert and very anxious, screaming because of the pain in your right
lower leg. You are able to follow all verbal and physical commands the soldier medic gives you.
(4) Equipment list:
(a) Live casualty (moulage), 1 each.
(b) Mannequin, 1 each.
(c) M-5 medical aid bag or CMVS, 1 each.
(d) SKEDCO/Talon II litter, 1 each.
(5) Care under fire.
(a) All personnel return fire.
(b) Scene size-up:
1) The squad is establishing fire superiority at present.
2) The causalities are not under direct (effective) enemy fire at present.
3) Area is secure enough to treat life-threatening injuries prior to movement to the CCP.

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1 November 2005
(6) Determine the number of casualties: two (2).
(7) Rapidly triage casualties:
(a) Casualty #1: immediate.
(b) Casualty #2: minimal; directs patient #2 to move to cover, provide assistance as required,
move to CCP and perform self aid.
NOTE: No further care or evaluation is required for casualty #2 during the trauma scenario; he is only a
distracter for the soldier medic.
(8) General impression: critically injured casualty.
(9) Airway: patent (casualty is conscious and talking).
(10) Performs immediate treatment:
(a) Conducts a rapid blood sweep and applies a tourniquet.
(b) Reassures the casualty.
(c) Requests additional help.
(d) Calls for squad member to assist in moving and providing treatment as required.
(e) Moves the casualty to a CCP.
(11) Initial assessment (Tactical Field Care).
(a) Casualty #1:
1) General impression: critically injured initially.
2) C-spine control:not required.
3) LOC: conscious, altered mental status.
4) Vital signs (baseline):
a) BP: 70 (P) at carotid.
b) R: 24 shallow and regular.
c) P: 98, weak and thready.
d) CCT: cool and moist.
5) Airway: patent.
6) Airway adjuncts: nasopharyngeal airway (NPA).
7) Breathing (opens body armor): rate increased (anxious; not airway compromise).
8) Circulation: proper blood sweep reveals.

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1 November 2005
a) If tourniquet applied correctly, hemorrhage controlled; other injuries.
b) Consider loosing the tourniquet after a dressing and bandage has been applied if
bleeding continues re-tighten the tourniquet.
c) Pulses: rapid carotid pulse, absent radial pulses bilateral.
d) Bleeding: drying blood to small puncture wounds left lower leg (not actively bleeding).
9) Fluid resuscitation:
a) Initiate a saline lock.
b) Start IV fluids: 500ml of Hextend; re-evaluates after 500 ml of Hextend.
c) The causality’s mental statues improves and a palpable radial pulse returns (do not give
additional fluids, maintain saline lock, and observe for changes in vital signs).
d) Cover casualty and keep them warm.
(12) Check for additional wounds:
(a) Performs a rapid body sweep similar to the blood sweep.
(b) Inspects the posterior.
(c) Identifies the right lower leg wounds. Treatment required: dressing, bandage and splint.
(d) Bandage and splint all wounds. Treatment required: applies dressing and bandage to left
lower leg stump.
(13) Vital signs (second set):
(a) LOC: mental status imnproving.
(b) BP: 90 (P) at radial.
(c) R: 16 shallow and regular.
(d) CCT: warmer.
(14) Ongoing assessment: repeated every 5 minutes.
(15) Packages the casualty: secures to the SKEDCO/ TALON litter.
(16) Calls for CASEVAC: sends a nine-line MEDEVAC request.
(17) Documents care on the FMC and attaches to the casualty.
(18) Gathers a SAMPLE history prior to administering medications.
(a) S - Pain in both legs.
(b) A - No allergies.
(c) M - No medications.

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1 November 2005
(d) P - No significant past illnesses.
(e) L - Last meal three hours ago.
(f) E - “I was on patrol and was shot and something exploded pretty close to me”
(19) Rapid trauma assessment will be conducted based on METT-T.
(20) Administers medications.
(a) Pain control: Morphine 5 mg IV every 10 minutes until adequate analgesia is achieved.
(b) ATB: Cefoxitin 1-2 gms IVP over 3-5 minutes or Gaitifloxacin 400 mg PO.
(21) Critical measures:
(a) Identifies no immediate threat to causality or self.
(b) Applies tourniquet prior to movement to the CCP.
(c) Identifies signs and symptoms of shock.
(d) Establishment of saline lock and begins fluid resuscitation with Hextend.
(e) Initiates call for CASEVAC.
(22) Teaching points: apply tourniquet early to significant extremity wounds, consideration should
be given to loosening the tourniquet when tactical situation allows and after appropriate
bandaging and splinting to determine if bleeding continues or the tourniquet can be released.
(23) Teaching points: if the soldier has no palpable radial pulse and mental status changes,
administers 500 ml Hextend. If mental status improves and radial pulse returns, maintain
saline lock, but do not give additional fluids. If radial pulse does not return or MS does not
improve, administer a second 500 ml of Hextend and reevaluate.
(24) Discuss how to administer Narcan if to much Morphine is administered and patient develops
respiratory depression.
c. Sample scenarios: summary.
(1) This sample scenario gives you an example of how to develop a scenario.
(2) There are several included with this Student Reference, with corresponding grade sheets that
may be used.
(3) Mannequins or moulaged students may be used a s the casualties.
(4) Evaluators for combat trauma lanes training must be familiar with all of the tactical medicine
principles to be able to adequately evaluate the students.
(5) You must rehearse this training with instructors as both casualties (rol e players) and evaluators.

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1 November 2005

Admin No/Title DCMT10003 Insert an Oropharyngeal Airway (OPA)
Lesson C191W3TC/1 Advanced Airway Techniques

Number/Title
Introduction This practical exercise will confirm your ability to insert an oropharyngeal
airway (OPA) or "J-Tube" to maintain an open airway.
Motivator One of the most critical skills that a soldier medic must know is airway
management. Without proper airway management techniques and
oxygen administration, your casualty may die needlessly. The soldier
medic must be able to choose, and effectively use, the proper equipment
for maintaining an open and clear airway and for administering oxygen
for both medical and trauma casualties.
Terminal NOTE: The instructor should inform the students of the following
Learning Terminal Learning Objective covered by this practical exercise.
Objective
At the completion of this lesson, you [the student] will:
Action: Demonstrate the proper technique and procedures for

inserting an oropharyngeal airway
Conditions: Given a casualty with an obstructed or difficult airway in

a simulated combat environment
Standards: Perform all measures IAW the concepts and principles of

Tactical Combat Casualty Care and the Combat Medic
Advanced Skills Training (CMAST) program.
Safety Students must be observed (Instructor to Student ratio of 1:6).

Requirements
Risk Risk assessment is Low - All bodily fluids should be considered as

Assessment potentially infectious so always observe body substance isolation (BSI)
Level precautions by wearing gloves and eye protection as a minimal standard
of protection.
Environmental None
Considerations
Evaluation Students will be evaluated as a Pass/Fail (P/F). The instructor will verify
the accuracy of the student’s ability to insert an oropharyngeal airway on
an airway trainer by means of observing the student’s procedures and
technique.
Instructional While responding to a casualty, you encounter a altered level of

Lead-in consciousness and an absent gag reflex. An airway must be established
immediately. You must insert an oropharyngeal airway (OPA); you have
been provided the necessary medical equipment.
Resource Instructor Materials:

Requirements Student Checklist.
Department of Combat Medic Training PE - 1 1 November 2005

DCMT10003 Insert an Oropharyngeal Airway (OPA) cont'd
Student Materials:
Student Checklist; M-5 medical aid bag or Combat Medic Vest System,
stocked with a basic load (to include airway kit with OPA).
Special 1. Provide each instructor with a Student Checklist.

Instructions 2. Ensure student has all student-required materials.
3. Read Terminal Learning Objective and the evaluation method to the
student.
4. Explain the grading of the exercise.
5. Allow time for the students to extract the information required from the
instructor-provided scenario.
Procedures a. Takes or verbalizes body substance isolation (BSI) precautions.

b. Selects the appropriate size oropharyngeal airway.
c. Open the casualty's mouth using the chin-lift maneuver.
d. Inserts the airway without pushing the tongue posteriorly.
e. Removes the oropharyngeal airway.
REFERENCE:
AAOS Emergency Care and Transportation of the Sick and Wounded, 8th Edition, Jones and
Bartlett.
Individual Task: 081-833-0016 Insert an Oropharyngeal Airway (J Tube)

DCMT10003 Insert an Oropharyngeal Airway (OPA)
Task Completed
1st 2nd 3rd
Took/verbalized body substance isolation (BSI) precautions. P / F P / F P / F
Selected the appropriate size oropharyngeal airway. P / F P / F P / F
Opened the casualty's mouth using the chin-lift maneuver. P / F P / F P / F
Inserted the airway without pushing the tongue posteriorly. P / F P / F P / F
Instructor: You must advise the soldier that the casualty is gagging and becoming
conscious.
Removed the oropharyngeal airway. P / F P / F P / F
Critical Criteria:
_____ Did not take or verbalize body substance isolation (BSI) precautions.
_____ Did not obtain a patent airway with the oropharyngeal airway.
_____ Inserted adjunct in a manner that was dangerous to the casualty.
Evaluator's Comments:
Soldier's Name: ______________________ SSN: ______________ CO: _______ TM: _______
Start Time: _______________ Stop Time: _______________ Initial Evaluator: ______________
Start Time: _______________ Stop Time: _______________ Retest Evaluator: _____________
Start Time: _______________ Stop Time: _______________ Final Evaluator: ______________


Admin No/Title DCMT10004 Insert a Nasopharyngeal Airway (NPA)

Number/Title
Introduction This practical exercise will confirm your ability to insert a nasopharyngeal
airway (NPA) to maintain an open airway.
Motivator One of the most critical skills that a soldier medic must know is airwa y
Objective

inserting a nasopharyngeal airway
Conditions: Given a casualty with an obstructed or difficult airway in

a simulated combat environment


Requirements

of protection.
Environmental None
Considerations
the accuracy of the student’s ability to insert a nasopharyngeal airway on
an airway trainer by means of observing the student’s procedures and
technique.
Instructional While responding to a casualty, you encounter an altered level of

Lead-in consciousness but an active gag reflex. An airway must be established
immediately. You must insert a nasopharyngeal airway (NPA); you have


DCMT10004 Insert a Nasopharyngeal Airway (NPA) cont'd
Student Materials:
stocked with a basic load (to include airway kit with NPA).

student.

b. Measures the nasopharyngeal airway correctly.
c. Verbalizes lubrication of the nasopharyngeal airway.
d. Fully inserts the nasopharyngeal airway with the bevel facing toward the
septum.
REFERENCE:
Bartlett.
Individual Task: 081-833-0142 Insert a Nasopharyngeal Airway

DCMT10004 Insert a Nasopharyngeal Airway (NPA)
Task Completed
1st 2nd 3rd
Instructor: You must advise the soldier to insert a nasopharyngeal airway.
Measured the nasopharyngeal airway correctly. P / F P / F P / F
Verbalized lubrication of the nasopharyngeal airway. P / F P / F P / F
Fully inserted the nasopharyngeal airway with the bevel facing toward P / F P / F P / F
the septum.
Critical Criteria:
_____ Did not obtain a patent airway with the nasopharyngeal airway.


Admin No/Title DCMT10009 Insert a Combitube

Number/Title
Introduction This practical exercise will confirm your ability to insert a combitube to
maintain an open and patent airway.
Objective

inserting a Combitube
Conditions: Given an M-5 aid bag, stocked with a basic load, any
other appropriate medical equipment and an airway
trainer in a simulated combat environment


Requirements

of protection.
Environmental None
Considerations
the accuracy of the student’s ability to insert a Combitube on an airway
trainer by means of observing the student’s procedures and technique.
Instructional Your engineer company has been assigned the task to destroy bridges
Lead-in along a major avenue of attack. While assembling explosives, a blasting
cap detonates, igniting some nearby fuel cans. The Combat Engineer
appears to have sustained severe burns of the upper airway and you can
hear stridorous noise as you approach. You must establish and maintain
an adequate airway using a Combitube; you have been provided the
necessary medical equipment.

DCMT10009 Insert a Combitube cont'd

Student Materials:
stocked with a basic load (to include airway kit with Combitube).

student.

b. Assesses the upper airway for visible obstruction.
c. Hyperventilates the casualty for 30 seconds.
d. Positions the casualty's head in a neutral position.
e. Tests both cuffs (white and blue) for leaks by inflating the white pilot
balloon (15 ml) and the blue pilot balloon (100 ml) with air; deflates the
cuffs completely.
f. Inserts the Combitube:
- Grasps the tongue and lower jaw between the thumb and index finger
and lifts upward (jaw-lift maneuver).
- Inserts the Combitube gently but firmly until the black rings on the tube
are positioned between the casualty's teeth.
- Do not use force, if the tube does not insert easily, student must
withdraw the tube and retry.
NOTE: Must hyperventilate for 30 seconds between unsuccessful attempts.
- Inflates the #1 (blue) balloon with 100ml of air (using a 100 ml syringe);
inflates the #2 (white) balloon with 15 ml of air (using a 20 ml syringe).
- Ventilates through the primary (#1-blue) tube. If auscultation of breath
sounds is positive and auscultation of gastric sounds is negative:
continues ventilations.
- If auscultation of breath sounds is negative and gastric insufflation is
positive, immediately begins ventilations through the shorter (#2-white)
tube. Confirm tracheal ventilation of breath sounds and the absence of
gastric insufflation.
- If auscultation of breath sounds and auscultation of gastric insufflation
is negative, the Combitube may have been advanced too far into the
pharynx. Deflates the #1 (blue) balloon/cuff and move the Combitube
approx. 2-3 cm. out of the casualty's mouth.
- Re-infaltes the #1 (blue) balloon with 100 ml of air and ventilate through
the longer #1 connecting tube. If auscultation of breath sounds is
positive and auscultation of gastric insufflation is negative: continues
ventilations.
- If breath sounds are still absent, student should immediately deflate the
cuffs and extubates.
- Student should insert an oropharyngeal or nasopharyngeal airway and
hyperventilate the casualty with a bag-valve-mask (BVM) device.
f. If successful, ventilates the casualty using a pocket facemask or BVM.
g. Reassesses the airway.

REFERENCE:
Mosby Pre-Hospital Trauma Life Support (PHTLS), 5th Edition, Revised Military Edition.
Individual Task: 081-833-0017 Ventilate a Patient with a Bag-Valve-Mask System
Individual Task: 081-833-0169 Insert a Combitube

DCMT10009 Insert a Combitube
Task Completed
1st 2nd 3rd
Assessed the upper airway for visible obstruction. P / F P / F P / F
Hyperventilated the casualty for 30 seconds. P / F P / F P / F
Positioned the casualty's head in a neutral position. P / F P / F P / F
Tested both cuffs for leaks by inflating the white pilot balloon (15 ml) P / F P / F P / F
and the blue pilot balloon (100 ml).
Inserted the Combitube gently but firmly until the black rings on the P / F P / F P / F
tube were positioned between the casualty's teeth.
- Inflated the #1 balloon with 100ml of air; inflated the #2 balloon with P / F P / F P / F
15 ml of air.
- Ventilated through the primary (#1) tube. If auscultation of breath P / F P / F P / F
sounds was positive and auscultation of gastric sounds was negative,
student continued ventilations.
- If auscultation of breath sounds was negative and gastric P / F P / F P / F
insufflation was positive, student immediately began ventilations
through the shorter (#2) tube. Confirmed tracheal ventilation of
breath sounds and the absence of gastric insufflation.
- If auscultation of breath sounds and auscultation of gastric P / F P / F P / F
insufflation was negative, the student deflated the #1 balloon/cuff and
moved the Combitube approx. 2-3 cm. out of the casualty's mouth.
- Re-infalted the #1 balloon with 100 ml of air and ventilated through P / F P / F P / F
the longer #1 connecting tube. If auscultation of breath sounds was
positive and auscultation of gastric insufflation was negative:
continued ventilations.
- If breath sounds were still absent, student should have immediately P / F P / F P / F
deflated the cuffs and extubated.
Student should have inserted an OPA or NPA and hyperventilated P / F P / F P / F
the casualty with a BVM device.
If successful, ventilated the casualty using a pocket facemask or bag- P / F P / F P / F
valve-mask (BVM) system.
Reassessed the airway. P / F P / F P / F
Critical Criteria:
_____ Did not obtain a patent airway with the Combitube.



Admin No/Title DCMT10010 Perform an Emergency Surgical Cricothyrotomy

Number/Title
Introduction This practical exercise will confirm your ability to perform an emergency
cricothyrotomy to obtain and maintain an open airway.
Objective

performing an emergency surgical cricothyrotomy
Conditions: Given an M-5 aid bag, stocked with a basic load, any
other appropriate medical equipment and an airway
trainer in a simulated combat environment


Requirements

of protection.
Environmental None
Considerations
the accuracy of the student’s ability to perform an emergency surgical
cricothyrotomy on an airway trainer by means of observing the student’s
procedures and technique.
Instructional During a night patrol, your infantry squad receives incoming mortar fire.
Lead-in As the squad dives for cover, you notice one of the soldiers receives a
massive facial wound from flying shrapnel. The casualty has an altered
level of consciousness and is not breathing. You must perform an
emergency surgical cricothyrotomy to establish an airway and to support
ventilations; you have been provided the necessary medical equipment.

DCMT10010 Perform an Emergency Surgical Cricothyrotomy cont'd.

Student Materials:
Student Checklist, M-5 medical aid bag or Combat Medic Vest System,
stocked with a basic load.

student.
Procedures
a. Takes or verbalizes body substance isolation (BSI) precautions.
b. Assesses the upper airway for visible obstruction.
c. Identifies the cricothyroid membrane between the cricoid and thyroid
cartilages.
d. Palpates the cricothyroid membrane and (while stabilizing the cartilage)
make a vertical incision in the midline, directly over the cricothyroid
membrane.
e. While continuing to stabilize the larynx, uses the scalpel or a hemostat
and cuts or pokes through the cricothyroid membrane.
f. Inserts the tips of the hemostat through the opening and opens the jaws
to dilate the opening.
g. Inserts an ET tube or cannula between the jaws of the hemostat; the
tube should be in the trachea and directed distally towards the lungs.
h. Inflates the cuff with 5-10 ml of air.
i. Checks for air exchange and verifies placement of the tube by listening
and feeling for air passing in and out of t he tube and looking for bilateral
rise and fall of the chest.
j. If air exchange is adequate, secures the tube with tape or a commercial
tube securing device.
k. Applies a dressing to further protect the tube and incision site.
l. Monitors the casualty's respirations.
REFERENCE:
Individual Task: 081-833-3005 Perform a Surgical Cricothyroidotomy

DCMT10010 Perform an Emergency Surgical Cricothyrotomy
Task Completed
1st 2nd 3rd
Assessed the upper airway for visible obstruction. P / F P / F P / F
Correctly identified the cricothyroid membrane. P / F P / F P / F
Palpated the cricothyroid membrane and (while stabilizing the P / F P / F P / F

cartilage) made a vertical incision in the midline, directly over the
cricothyroid membrane.
While continuing to stabilize the larynx, used the scalpel or a P / F P / F P / F
hemostat and cut or poke through the cricothyroid membrane.
Inserted the tips of the hemostat through the opening and opened the P / F P / F P / F
jaws to dilate the opening.
Inserted an ET tube or cannula between the jaws of the hemostat; P / F P / F P / F
the tube is in the trachea, directed distally towards the lungs.
Inflated the cuff with 5-10 ml of air. P / F P / F P / F
Checked for air exchange and verified placement of the tube by P / F P / F P / F

listening and feeling for air passing in and out of the tube and looked
for bilateral rise and fall of the chest.
If air exchange is adequate, secured the tube. P / F P / F P / F
Applied a dressing to further protect the tube and incision site. P / F P / F P / F
Monitored the casualty's respirations. P / F P / F P / F
Critical Criteria:
_____ Did not obtain a patent airway with the emergency surgical cricothyrotomy,
_____ Performed procedure in a manner that was dangerous to the casualty.

DCMT10010 Perform an Emergency Surgical Cricothyrotomy cont'd.

Admin No/Title DCMT10024 Manage an Open Pneumothorax
Lesson C191W4TC/1 Chest Trauma Management

Number/Title
Introduction This practical exercise will confirm your ability to manage an open
pneumothorax (sucking chest wound) to ensure adequate respirations.
Motivator Many casualties with multiple injuries have an associated chest injury.
Severe thoracic injuries often result from MVCs, falls, GSWs, crush
injuries, and stab wounds. Thoracic injuries are treatable if the casualty
is properly assessed, managed and evacuated in a timely and effective
manner.
Objective

managing a casualty with an open pneumothorax
Conditions: Given a casualty or a soldier acting as a casualty with

severe thoracic trauma in a simulated combat
environment


Requirements

of protection.
Environmental None
Considerations
the accuracy of the student’s ability to properly manage a simulated open
pneumothorax on a mannequin, thoracic section (DVC 08-19) or a
soldier acting (role-playing) as a casualty by means of observing the
student’s procedures and technique.
Instructional During an artillery barrage, a soldier is struck in the chest with a

Lead-in fragment from one of the exploding projectiles. Following your initial
assessment and rapid trauma assessment you determine that the
casualty has an open pneumothorax. You must manage the chest
wound and restore adequate respirations; you have been provided the
necessary medical equipment.


DCMT10024 Manage an Open Pneumothorax cont'd
Student Materials:

student.

b. Exposes the injury by cutting away the casualty's clothing.
c. Covers the open wound immediately with their gloved hand.
d. Covers the wound with a large sterile, non-porous dressing, covering the
larger wound first if multiple wounds are assessed.
e. Tapes three of four sides to provide a flutter-type valve effect.
f. While maintaining C-spine stabilization, log-rolls the casualty (on injured
side) to examine the posterior.
g. Covers the exit wound with a (four-sided) fully occlusive dressing.
h. Places the casualty in a sitting position or on their injured side (recovery
position) during transport.
i. Removes gloves and disposes of them appropriately.
j. Documents the procedure on the appropriate medical form.
REFERENCE:
Individual Task: 081-833-0049 Treat a Casualty with a Closed Chest Wound

DCMT10024 Manage an Open Pneumothorax
Task Completed
1st 2nd 3rd
Exposed the injury by cutting away the casualty's clothing. P / F P / F P / F
Covered the open wound immediately with their gloved hand. P / F P / F P / F
Covered the wound with a large sterile, non-porous dressing, P / F P / F P / F

covering the larger wound first if multiple wounds were assessed.
Taped three of four sides to provide a flutter-type valve effect. P / F P / F P / F
While maintaining C-spine stabilization, log -rolled the casualty (on P / F P / F P / F

their injured side) to examine the posterior.
Covered the exit wound with a (four-sided) fully occlusive dressing. P / F P / F P / F
Placed the casualty in a sitting position or on their injured side P / F P / F P / F

(recovery position) during transport.
Removed their gloves and disposed of them appropriately. P / F P / F P / F
Documented the procedure on the appropriate medical form. P / F P / F P / F
Critical Criteria:
_____ Did not use occlusive material to seal the wound.
_____ Did not assess for an exit wound.
_____ Did not place the casualty in a sitting/recovery position for transport.
_____ Performed the procedure in a manner that was dangerous to the casualty.

DCMT10024 Manage an Open Pneumothorax cont'd

Admin No/Title DCMT10015 Decompress the Chest: Needle Decompression
Lesson C191W4TC/1 Chest Trauma Management

Number/Title
Introduction This practical exercise will confirm your ability to manage a thoracic
injury casualty and provide treatment for progressive respiratory distress.
Motivator The second leading cause of preventable death on the battlefield is a

tension pneumothorax. If not identified in a casualty with a penetrating
wound to the chest, they can be fatal. It is imperative that you, as a
soldier medic, know how to effectively manage penetrating chest injuries
and to recognize and treat a tension pneumothorax.
Objective

performing a needle chest decompression (NCD) to
manage a casualty with progressive respiratory distress
Conditions: Given a casualty or a soldier acting as a casualty with

severe thoracic trauma in a simulated combat
environment


Requirements

of protection.
Environmental None
Considerations
the accuracy of the student’s ability to properly manage a simulated
tension pneumothorax on a mannequin, thoracic section (DVC 08-19)
and perform a NCD by means of observing the student’s procedures and
technique.
Instructional During a night patrol, your platoon receives intense small arms fire. As
Lead-in your platoon returns fire and takes up defensive positions, the second
squad leader calls for your attention regarding a fallen soldier. The
casualty presents with signs and symptoms of a tension pneumothorax.
You determine the casualty requires a needle chest decompression;
you have been provided the necessary medical equipment.

DCMT10015 Decompress the Chest: Needle Decompression cont'd

Student Materials:

student.
INSTRUCTOR: This practical exercise is evaluated after the student has successfully
performed DCMT10024 Manage an Open Pneumothorax.

b. Assesses the casualty to ensure the progressive respiratory distress is
due to a penetrating chest wound.
c. Identifies the second intercostal space (ICS) on the anterior chest wall at
the mid-clavicular line (MCL) on the same side as the injury;
approximately two-finger widths below the clavicle.
d. Cleanses the site with an antimicrobial solution.
e. Inserts the needle into the chest.
- Removes the plastic cap from the 2.5-3 inch 14 gauge needle.
- Inserts the needle into the skin over the superior border of the third rib,
MCL, and directs the needle into the ICS at a 90 degree angle.
- As the needle enters the pleural space, a "pop' was felt, followed by a
possible hiss of air.
- Removes the needle leaving the catheter in place.
INSTRUCTOR: Administratively gain control of the needle and syringe unit and place it in a
sharps container.
f. Stabilizes the catheter hub to the chest wall with adhesive tape.
g. Places the casualty in a sitting position or on their injured side (recovery
position) during transport.
h. Removes gloves and disposes of them appropriately.
i. Documents the procedure on the appropriate medical form.
REFERENCE:
Individual Task: 081-833-3007 Perform Needle Chest Decompression

DCMT10015 Decompress the Chest: Needle Decompression
Task Completed
1st 2nd 3rd
performed DCMT10024 Manage an Open Pneumothorax.
Assessed the casualty to ensure the progressive respiratory distress P / F P / F P / F

was due to a penetrating chest wound.
Identified the second ICS on the anterior chest wall at the MCL on the P / F P / F P / F
same side as the injury; approximately two-finger widths below the
clavicle.
Cleansed the site with an antimicrobial solution. P / F P / F P / F
Inserted the needle into the chest. P / F P / F P / F
sharps container.
Stabilized the catheter hub to the chest wall with adhesive tape P / F P / F P / F
Placed the casualty in a sitting position or on their injured side P / F P / F P / F

(recovery position) during transport.
Critical Criteria:
_____ Did not recognize progressive respiratory distress as an indication of NCD.
_____ Did not perform the NCD at the proper landmarks or on the same side as the chest injury.
_____ Did not secure the catheter hub to the chest wall.

DCMT10015 Decompress the Chest: Needle Decompression cont'd

Admin No/Title DCMT10025 Control Bleeding using an Emergency Trauma

Dressing (ETD)
Lesson C191W5TC/1 Hemorrhage Control

Number/Title
Introduction This practical exercise will confirm your ability to control hemorrhage
using the Emergency Trauma Dressing (ETD).
Motivator The timely and appropriate use of direct pressure and pressure
dressings applied directly to the wound usually controls bleeding. The
ETD or "emergency bandage; Israeli dressing" has been found to be
extremely effective.
Objective

applying the ETD
Conditions: Given a casualty with significant extremity hemorrhage

in a simulated combat environment


Requirements

of protection.
Environmental None
Considerations
the accuracy of the student’s ability to apply the ETD effectively on the
extremity of a fellow student simulating a casualty by means of observing
the student’s procedures and technique.
Instructional An infantryman moving through a built-up area has the point on your
Lead-in patrol. An artillery round impacts approximately 25 meters from where
he is standing. Once counter-battery fire is initiated, you move forward
to his position. The casualty is alert and oriented, and has significant
bleeding coming from his left forearm. Following your initial assessment
and rapid trauma assessment you determine that this is his only
significant injury. You must apply an ETD to the open wound; you have


DCMT10025 Control Bleeding using an Emergency Trauma Dressing (ETD) cont'd
Student Materials:

student.

c. Opens the sterile package of the ETD.
INSTRUCTOR: The student must not contaminate the white side of the ETD by touching it.
d. Applies the ETD to the extremity; applies the white portion directly over
the wound.
- Wraps the elastic portion of the ETD around the extremity.
- Inserts the elastic wrap completely into the pressure bar.
- Pulls the ETD tight and reverses it back over the top of the pressure bar
forcing the bar down onto the wound pad.
- Continues to wrap the elastic bandage tightly over the pressure bar and
wound pad; ensuring the edges of the wound pad are completely
covered.
- Secures the hooking ends of the closure bar onto the last wrap of the
bandage.
e. Evaluates pulse, motor, sensory (PMS).
f. Re-evaluates to ensure bleeding has stopped.
g. Documents the procedure on the appropriate medical form.
REFERENCE:
Individual Task: 081-833-0212 Apply an Emergency Dressing

DCMT10025 Control Bleeding using an Emergency Trauma Dressing
Task Completed
1st 2nd 3rd
Opened the sterile package of the ETD. P / F P / F P / F
INSTRUCTOR: The student must not contaminate the white side of the ETD by touching it.
Applied the ETD to the extremity; applied the white portion directly P / F P / F P / F
over the wound.
Evaluated pulse, motor, sensory (PMS). P / F P / F P / F
Re-evaluated to ensure bleeding has stopped. P / F P / F P / F
Critical Criteria:
_____ Did not wrap the elastic portion through the pressure bar.
_____ Did not apply the ETD tightly.
_____ Did not effectively control bleeding.
_____ Did not secure the closure bar to the elastic wrap.


Admin No/Title DCMT10026 Control Bleeding using an Improvised Tourniquet

Number/Title
using an improvised tourniquet.
Motivator Direct pressure, elevation and pressure dressings applied directly to the
wound usually controls bleeding; however, they are not always effective.
In the case of traumatic amputations and in a tactical environment, use
of tourniquets will greatly decrease the mortality of severely injured
casualties.
Objective

applying an improvised tourniquet to control the
hemorrhage



Requirements

of protection.
Environmental None
Considerations
the accuracy of the student’s ability to effectively apply an improvised
tourniquet to an extremity of a mannequin, resuscitation training (DVC
08-15) or a fellow student simulating a casualty by means of observing
Instructional Your infantry squad has been assigned the task to patrol the outskirts of
Lead-in a village. To your front, a mortar round impacts near your squad's
point man; you drag the soldier behind cover and perform your initial
assessment and rapid trauma assessment. The casualty is conscious
and has a traumatic amputation of his left lower leg. You determine that
a tourniquet is the best way to bring the hemorrhage under control. You
do not have access to your M-5 medical aid bag; you must apply an
improvised tourniquet using the materials available.

DCMT10026 Control Bleeding using an Improvised Tourniquet cont'd

Student Materials:
Student Checklist; cravats and sticks; adhesive tape; marker.

student.

c. Assembles the materials for the improvised tourniquet.
d. Places the improvised tourniquet between the casualty's heart and the
wound; leaves at least 2 inches of uninjured skin between the tourniquet
and the wound.
e. Wraps the improvised tourniquet (cravat) around the extremity and ties a
half-knot on the anterior surface of the extremity.
f. Places a stick or similar object (windlass) directly over the half-knot; ties
a square knot over the stick.
g. Twists the stick until bleeding has stopped.
INSTRUCTOR: If a fellow soldier is used as the simulated casualty, prompt the soldier
when bleeding has stopped. Use care to not over-tighten the tourniquet on the simulated
casualty.
h. Secures the stick in place using tape or another cravat.

i. Using a marker, draws a "T" on the casualty's forehead and records the
date and time the tourniquet was applied (scrap paper or FMC).
INSTRUCTOR: Soldier must not cover the tourniquet.
j. Dresses the stump.

k. Preserves the amputated part (if possible).
l. Transports the casualty as soon as possible to an MTF; transports the
amputated part with the casualty (if possible).
REFERENCE:
Bartlett.
Individual Task: 081-833-0210 Apply a Tourniquet to Control Bleeding

DCMT10026 Control Bleeding using an Improvised Tourniquet
Task Completed
1st 2nd 3rd
Assembled the materials for the improvised tourniquet. P / F P / F P / F
Placed the improvised tourniquet between the casualty's heart and P / F P / F P / F

the wound; left at least 2 inches of uninjured skin between the
tourniquet and the wound.
Wrapped the improvised tourniquet (cravat) around the extremity and P / F P / F P / F
tied a half-knot on the anterior surface of the extremity.
Placed a stick or similar object (windlass) directly over the half-knot; P / F P / F P / F
tied a square knot over the stick.
Twisted the stick until bleeding stopped. P / F P / F P / F
INSTRUCTOR: If a fellow soldier is used as the simulated casualty, prompt the soldier when
bleeding has stopped. Use care to not over-tighten the tourniquet on the simulated
casualty.
Secured the stick in place using tape or another cravat. P / F P / F P / F
Using a marker, drew a "T" on the casualty's forehead and recorded P / F P / F P / F

the date and time the tourniquet was applied (scrap paper or FMC).
Dressed the stump. P / F P / F P / F
Preserved the amputated part (if possible). P / F P / F P / F
Transported the casualty as soon as possible to an MTF; transported P / F P / F P / F

the amputated part with the casualty (if possible).
Critical Criteria:
_____ Did not place the improvised tourniquet above the wound.
_____ Did not effectively control the bleeding.
_____ Did not secure the improvised tourniquet in place.

DCMT10026 Control Bleeding using an Improvised Tourniquet cont'd

Admin No/Title DCMT10027 Control Bleeding using a Combat Application Tourniquet

(C-A-T)

Number/Title
using a Combat Application Tourniquet (C-A-T).
Motivator Direct pressure, elevation and pressure dressings applied directly to the
wound usually controls bleeding; however, they are not always effective.
In the case of traumatic amputations and in a tactical environment, use
of tourniquets will greatly decrease the mortality of severely injured
casualties.
Objective

applying a Combat Application Tourniquet to control the
hemorrhage



Requirements

of protection.
Environmental None
Considerations
the accuracy of the student’s ability to effectively apply a Combat
Application Tourniquet to an extremity of a mannequin, resuscitation
training (DVC 08-15) or a fellow student simulating a casualty by means
of observing the student’s procedures and technique.
Instructional Your infantry squad has been assigned the task to patrol the outskirts of
Lead-in a village. To your front, a mortar round impacts near your squad 's
point man; you drag the soldier behind cover and perform your initial
assessment and rapid trauma assessment. The casualty is conscious
and has a traumatic amputation of his left lower leg. You determine that
a tourniquet is the best way to bring the hemorrhage under control. You
must apply a Combat Application Tourniquet (C-A-T) to control the
bleeding; you have been provided the necessary medical equipment.

DCMT10027 Control Bleeding using a Combat Application Tourniquet (C-A-T) cont'd

Student Materials:

student.

c. Removes the C-A-T from the carrying pouch.
d. Slides the wounded extremity through the loop of the Self-adhering band.
e. Positions the C-A-T between the casualty's heart and the wound; leaves
at least 2 inches of uninjured skin between the C-A-T and the wound.
NOTE: If the wound is on the lower leg or the forearm, you may not be able to completely
control the bleeding with the tourniquet two inches above the wound. If not, you may
need to reposition the C-A-T above the knee/elbow to completely control the bleeding.
f. Applies the C-A-T.
- Pulls the free running end of the self-adhering band tight and securely
fastens it back on itself (if applying to an arm wound). Do not adhere the
band past the windlass clip.
- If applying to a leg wound, the self adhering band must be routed
through the friction adapter buckle and fastened back on itself. This will
prevent it from loosening when twisting the windlass clip.
g. Twists the windlass clip until bleeding ha stopped.
INSTRUCTOR: If a fellow soldier is used as the simulated casualty, prompt the soldier
when bleeding has stopped. Use care to not over-tighten the C-A-T on the simulated
casualty.
h. Locks the rod in place with the windlass clip.

NOTE: For added security (and always before moving the casualty), secure the windlass
rod with the windlass strap. For smaller extremities, continue to wind the self-adhering
band across the windlass clip and secure it under the windlass strap.
i. Grasps the windlass strap, pulls it tight and adheres it to the Velcro on
the windlass clip.
j. Using a marker, draws a "T" on the casualty's forehead and records the
date and time the C-A-T was applied (FMC).
k. Transports the casualty as soon as possible to an MTF.
REFERENCE:
Individual Task: 081-833-0210 Apply a Tourniquet to Control Bleeding

DCMT10027 Control Bleeding using a Combat Application Tourniquet
Task Completed
1st 2nd 3rd
Removed the C-A-T from the carrying pouch. P / F P / F P / F
Slid the wounded extremity through the loop of the Self-adhering P / F P / F P / F

band.
Positioned the C-A-T between the casualty's heart and the wound; P / F P / F P / F
left at least 2 inches of uninjured skin between the C-A-T and the
wound.
Applied the C-A-T. P / F P / F P / F
Twisted the windlass clip until bleeding has stopped. P / F P / F P / F
INSTRUCTOR: If a fellow soldier is used as the simulated casualty, prompt the soldier when
bleeding has stopped. Use care to not over-tighten the C-A-T on the simulated casualty.
Locked the rod in place with the windlass clip. P / F P / F P / F
Grasped the windlass strap, pulled it tight and adhered it to the P / F P / F P / F

Velcro on the windlass clip.
Using a marker, drew a "T" on the casualty's forehead and recorded P / F P / F P / F
the date and time the C-A-T was applied (FMC).
Transported the casualty as soon as possible to an MTF. P / F P / F P / F
Critical Criteria:
_____ Did not place the C-A-T above the wound.
_____ Did not twist the rod sufficiently to control the bleeding.
_____ Did not secure the CAT properly for an arm/leg wound.

DCMT10027 Control Bleeding using Combat Application Tourniquet cont'd

Admin No/Title DCMT10028 Control Bleeding using a HemCon Chitosan Bandage

Number/Title
using the HemCon Chitosan Bandage
dressings applied directly to the wound usually controls bleeding. The
HemCon or "Chitosan" Bandage has been found to be extremely
effective when these other methods are not controlling the hemorrhage.
Objective

applying the HemCon Chitosan Bandage to control the
hemorrhage



Requirements

of protection.
Environmental None
Considerations
the accuracy of the student’s ability to apply the HemCon Chitosan
Bandage effectively on the wound of a fellow student simulating a
casualty by means of observing the student’s procedures and technique.
Instructional Your squad is moving through a built-up area when a sniper opens up on
Lead-in the rear guard striking him in the leg. Once the sniper has been
eliminated, you move back to the casualty's position. He appears alert
and is screaming in pain. The SAW gunner is applying direct pressure to
what appears to be an arterial bleeder in the casualty's upper thigh.
Despite his best efforts, bright red blood continues to spurt from the
wound. You determine that this type of bleeding is best controlled by a
hemostatic agent. You must apply a HemCon Chitosan Bandage to the
lacerated blood vessel to control the hemorrhage; you have been
provided the necessary medical equipment.

DCMT10028 Control Bleeding using a HemCon Chitosan Bandage cont'd

Student Materials:
stocked with a basic load (to include a HemCon Chitosan Bandage).

student.

c. Opens the sterile HemCon Chitosan package.
- Peels back the unsealed edges at the top of the package.
- Removes the bandage from the package; does not contaminate the
cream-colored portion of the bandage.
- Holds the bandage by the non-absorbable polyester backing and
discards the foil pouch.
d. Places the cream-colored sponge portion of the bandage directly into the
wound where the bleeding is the heaviest.
e. Holds pressure on the bandage for 2-4 minutes or until the bandage
adheres to the wound and bleeding stops.
NOTE: Once the bandage is applied and in contact with the blood and tissue, the bandage
cannot be repositioned.
INSTRUCTOR: Inform the soldier that 4 minutes have passed and the bleeding has not
stopped.
f. Removes the original bandage and applies direct pressure until a new
bandage is in its place. Again holds pressure on the bandage for 2-4
minutes or until the bandage adheres to the wound and bleeding stops.
INSTRUCTOR: Inform the soldier that 2 minutes have passed and the bandage has
adhered to the wound and bleeding has stopped.
g. Applies a sterile dressing over the bandage to secure it in place.

h. Documents the procedure on the appropriate medical form.
REFERENCE:
Individual Task: 081-833-0211 Apply a Hemostatic Dressing

DCMT10028 Control Bleeding using a HemCon Chitosan Bandage
Task Completed
1st 2nd 3rd
Opened the sterile HemCon Chitosan package. P / F P / F P / F
Placed the cream-colored sponge portion of the bandage directly into P / F P / F P / F

the wound where the bleeding was the heaviest.
Held pressure on the bandage for 2-4 minutes or until the bandage P / F P / F P / F
adhered to the wound and bleeding stopped.
INSTRUCTOR: Inform the soldier that 4 minutes have passed and the bleeding has not
stopped.
Removed the original bandage and applied direct pressure until a P / F P / F P / F
new bandage was in its place. Again held pressure on the bandage
for 2-4 minutes or until the bandage adhered to the wound and
bleeding stopped.
INSTRUCTOR: Inform the soldier that 2 minutes have passed and the bandage has adhered
to the wound and bleeding has stopped.
Applied a sterile dressing over the bandage to secure it in place. P / F P / F P / F
Critical Criteria:
_____ Did not apply the correct portion of bandage to the wound.
_____ Contaminated the bandage before application.

DCMT10028 Control Bleeding using a HemCon Chitosan Bandage cont'd

Admin No/Title DCMT10029 Control Bleeding using a QuickClot Hemostatic Powder

Number/Title
using the QuickClot Hemostatic Powder
dressings applied directly to the wound usually controls bleeding.
QuickClot Hemostatic Powder has been found to be extremely
effective when these other methods are not controlling the hemorrhage.
Objective

applying the QuickClot Hemostatic Powder to control the
hemorrhage



Requirements

of protection.
Environmental None
Considerations
the accuracy of the student’s ability to apply the QuickClot Hemostatic
Powder effectively on the wound of a fellow student simulating a casualty
by means of observing the student’s procedures and technique.
Instructional Your squad is moving across an open road when an IED detonates
killing one squad member and severely wounding another. Following
your initial assessment and your rapid trauma assessment, you not ice a
large amount of blood pooling behind the casualty's left thigh. Despite
the efforts of another soldier to control the bleeding through direct
pressure, bright red blood continues to spurt from the wound. You
determine that this type of bleeding is best controlled by a hemostatic
agent. You must apply QuickClot Hemostatic Powder to the wound to
control the hemorrhage; you have been provided the necessary medical
equipment.

DCMT10029 Control Bleeding using a QuickClot Hemostatic Powder cont'd

Student Materials:
stocked with a basic load (to include a packet of QuickClot).

student.

c. Opens the sterile QuickClot packet.
- Uses a gauze bandage to open the packet of QuickClot; opens the
packet facing away from their face.
d. Using a wiping motion to clear the wound of excess blood, immediately
starts a slow pouring of one QuickClot packet directly into the wound.
e. Stops as soon as the QuickClot covers the wound.
f. If bleeding continues, applies more QuickClot.
g. Applies firm pressure to the QuickClot-covered wound with a gauze
bandage.
INSTRUCTOR: Inform the soldier that 4 minutes have passed and the bleeding appears to
have stopped.
h. Applies a pressure dressing to cover the wound.
i. Documents the procedure on the appropriate medical form.
REFERENCE:
Individual Task: 081-833-0211 Apply a Hemostatic Dressing

DCMT10029 Control Bleeding using a QuickClot Hemostatic Powder
Task Completed
1st 2nd 3rd
Opened the sterile QuickClot packet. P / F P / F P / F
Used a wiping motion to clear the wound of excess blood, P / F P / F P / F

immediately started a slow pouring of one QuickClot packet directly
into the wound.
Stopped as soon as the QuickClot covered the wound. P / F P / F P / F
If bleeding continued, applied more QuickClot. P / F P / F P / F
Applied firm pressure to the QuickClot-covered wound with a gauze P / F P / F P / F

bandage.
INSTRUCTOR: Inform the soldier that 4 minutes have passed and the bleeding appears to
have stopped.
Applied a pressure dressing to cover the wound. P / F P / F P / F
Critical Criteria:
_____ Did not remove excess blood from the wound prior to applying the QuickClot.

DCMT10029 Control Bleeding using a QuickClot Hemostatic Powder cont'd

Admin No/Title DCMT10019 Initiate an Intravenous Infusion
Lesson C191W6TC/1 Hypovolemic Shock Management

Number/Title
Introduction This practical exercise will confirm your ability to initiate an intravenous
infusion to maintain peripheral IV access.
Motivator The timely and appropriate use of intravenous therapy by the soldier
medic could make the difference between a casualty dying of the
wounds received or surviving evacuation to the next level of care.
Objective

initiating peripheral intravenous access
Conditions: Given an intravenous therapy trainer or a soldier acting

as a casualty in a simulated combat environment


Requirements
Risk Risk assessment is Medium - All bodily fluids should be considered as

of protection.
NOTE: This invasive procedure has the risk of accidental needle stick;
this risk is profoundly minimized by adequate direct supervision and on-
going instruction during the practical exercise. See BAMC Memorandum
40-135 Blood and Body Fluid Exposure Management.
Environmental None
Considerations
the accuracy of the student’s ability to initiate an IV on an intravenous
therapy trainer (DVC 08-05) and/or fellow student by means of observing
Instructional The lead Stryker Infantry Carrier Vehicle (ICV) traveling directly in front
Lead-in of your vehicle has been struck by an IED. After securing the immediate
area, the casualties are moved to safety. Following your initial
assessment and rapid trauma assessment you determine that you must
establish peripheral intravenous access for one of the casualties in order
to initiate fluids; you have been provided the necessary medical
equipment.

DCMT10019 Initiate an Intravenous Infusion cont'd

Student Materials:
stocked with a basic load (to include IV solution, administration set and
catheters).

student.

b. Assembles and arranges the necessary equipment.
c. Explains the procedure to the casualty (if conscious) and asks about
known allergies.
d. Prepares and inspects equipment.
- IV solution (expiration date, solution clarity, presence of punctures).
- Catheter (sterility, presence of barbs). Does not touch any part of the
catheter that enters the skin/vein.
- Micro/macro drip administration set.
INSTRUCTOR: Observe to ensure there is no violation of aseptic technique; if in doubt,

discard the catheter, obtain new equipment and repeat the step.
- Stretches out the IV tubing and closes off the flow-regulator clamp.
- Removes the protective covering from the port of the IV container and
the protective covering from the spike of the administration set. Inserts
the administration tubing spike into the IV solution port with a quick twist.
- Hangs the IV solution container at least 2 feet above the level of the
casualty's heart and squeezes the drip chamber until it is half full.
- Removes the protective cap from the tubing adapter and opens the
flow-regulator clamp allowing the fluid to flush all of the air from the
tubing; re-closes the flow-regulator clamp and recaps the tubing adapter.
NOTE: Does not lose sight of the distal end of the tubing once uncapped.

discard the tubing and solution, obtain new equipment and repeat the step.
- Cuts several strips of tape and hangs them where they are readily
accessible.
e. Selects a suitable vein for venipuncture.
f. Prepares the venipuncture site:
- Applies a constricting band 2 inches above the venipuncture site - tight
enough to occlude venous flow but not so tight distal pulses are lost.
- Selects and palpates a prominent vein.
- Cleanses skin with an antiseptic swab using a circular motion starting
with the entry site and extending outward about 2 inches; allows to dry.
g. Dons gloves.
h. Performs venipuncture.

- With the nondominant hand, pulls all local skin taut to stabilize the vein.
- With the dominant hand, distal bevel of the needle up, inserts the
cannula into the vein at an approximately 30 degree angle.
- Continues until blood in the flash chamber of the catheter is observed.
- Decreases angle to 15-20 degrees and carefully advances the cannula
approximately 0.5 cm further.
- While holding the needle stationary, advances the catheter into the vein
with a twisting motion. Inserts the catheter all the way to the hub.
INSTRUCTOR: Observe to ensure there is no violation of aseptic technique by the student

contacting the catheter with their thumb; if in doubt, discard the catheter,
obtain new equipment and repeat the step.
- Places a finger over the vein at the catheter tip and tamponades the
vein preventing blood from flowing out the catheter.
- Removes the needle while maintaining firm catheter control.
i. Removes the constricting band.
INSTRUCTOR: Administratively gain control of the needle and place in a sharps container.
j. Obtain venous blood samples as required.

k. Attaches the administration tubing to the cannula hub while maintaining
stabilization of the hub with the non-dominant hand.
l. Opens the flow-regulator clamp and observes for drips in the drip
chamber. Allows the fluid to run freely for several seconds.
NOTE: May drop the solution bag lower than the casualty's heart to observe for
a backflash of blood to verify catheter placement.
m. Adjusts to the desired flow rate.
n. Cleans the area of blood if necessary, and secures the hub of catheter
with tape, leaving the hub and tubing connection visible. Makes a small
loop in the IV tubing and places a second piece of tape over the first
to secure the loop.
o. Applies a 2x2, 4x4 or a transparent dressing over the venipuncture site.
p. Labels a piece of tape with date/time initiated, catheter size, and initials;
secures the tape over the dressing.
q. Monitors the casualty and continues to observe the venipuncture site for
signs of infiltration. Discontinues the infusion if signs are observed.
r. Removes gloves and disposes of them appropriately.
s. Documents the procedure on the appropriate medical form.
REFERENCE:
Individual Task: 081-833-0033 Initiate an Intravenous Infusion
Individual Task: 081-833-0034 Manage a Patient with an Intravenous Infusion

DCMT10019 Initiate an Intravenous Infusion
Task Completed
1st 2nd 3rd
Assembled the necessary equipment. P / F P / F P / F
Explained the procedure to the casualty (if conscious) and asked P / F P / F P / F

about known allergies.
Prepared and inspected equipment. P / F P / F P / F
Selected a suitable vein. P / F P / F P / F
Instructor: must observe to ensure there is no violation of aseptic technique; if in doubt,

discard the catheter, obtain new equipment and repeat the step.
Prepared the venipuncture site. P / F P / F P / F
Donned gloves. P / F P / F P / F
Performed the venipuncture. P / F P / F P / F
Instructor: must observe to ensure there is no violation of aseptic technique; if in doubt,

discard the tubing and solution, obtain new equipment and repeat the step.
Removed the constricting band. P / F P / F P / F
*Obtained venous blood samples as required. P / F P / F P / F
Attached the administration tubing to the cannula hub while P / F P / F P / F

maintaining stabilization of the hub with their non-dominant hand.
Opened the flow-regulator clamp and observed for drips in the drip P / F P / F P / F
chamber. Allowed the fluid to run freely for several seconds.
Adjusted to the desired flow rate. P / F P / F P / F
Cleansed the area of blood if necessary, and secured the hub of P / F P / F P / F

catheter with tape, leaving the hub and tubing connection visible.
Made a small loop in the IV tubing and placed a second piece of tape
over the first to secure the loop.
Applied a 2x2, 4x4 or a transparent dressing over the venipuncture P / F P / F P / F
site.
Labeled a piece of tape with date/time initiated, catheter size, and P / F P / F P / F
their initials; secured the tape over the dressing.
Monitored the casualty and continued to observe the venipuncture P / F P / F P / F
site for signs of infiltration. Discontinued the infusion if signs were
observed.

Critical Criteria:
_____ Did not properly inspect the intravenous solution.
_____ Did not remove the constricting band.
_____ Did not obtain a peripheral venous access after 3 attempts.
_____ Violated aseptic technique.


Admin No/Title DCMT10030 Initiate a Saline Lock

Number/Title
Introduction This practical exercise will confirm your ability to convert an existing IV
site to a saline lock to maintain peripheral IV access.
Motivator Establishment of appropriate intravenous access by the soldier medic

could make the difference between a casualty surviving to the next level
of care or dying because medications or fluids could not be delivered.
Objective

initiating peripheral intravenous access
Conditions: Given an intravenous therapy trainer or a soldier acting

as a casualty in a simulated combat environment


Requirements

of protection.
Environmental None
Considerations
the accuracy of the student’s ability to initiate a saline lock on an
intravenous therapy trainer (DVC 08-05) and/or fellow student by means
Instructional A casualty in your care has been undergoing intravenous fluid therapy
Lead-in and you know determine that fluids are no longer required; however, you
must maintain peripheral venous access. You must convert the IV line
to a saline lock; you have been provided the necessary medical
equipment.

DCMT10030 Initiate a Saline Lock cont'd

Student Materials:
stocked with a basic load (to include IV solution, administration set,
needle and syringe, sterile saline solution, and saline lock connectors).

student.
performed DCMT10019 Initiate an Intravenous infusion.

known allergies.
d. Inspects existing IV line to ensure patency.
- Opens the flow-regulator clamp.
- Drops the solution container lower than the casualty's heart to observe
for a backflash of blood into the IV tubing.
- Rehangs the solution container at least 2 feet above the level of the
casualty's heart.
- Adjusts the flow-regulator to a TKO (KVO) rate.
e. Prepares and inspects equipment.
- Saline lock connector.
- 18 gauge needle and syringe unit with 5 ml of sterile saline solution.

discard the needle and/or saline lock connector, obtain new equipment and repeat the
step.
- Opens the transparent (Tegaderm) dressing and places it where it is
readily accessible.
f. Dons gloves.
g. Closes the flow-regulator completely.
h. Removes the IV tubing.
- Places a finger (nondominant hand) over the vein at the catheter tip
and tamponades the vein preventing blood from flowing out the catheter.
- Removes the IV adapter (with dominant hand) from the end of the
catheter.
i. Attaches the saline lock connector (dominant hand) to the catheter hub.
j. Applies a transparent dressing, covering both the catheter and the body
of the saline lock connector.
k. Flushes the saline lock connector with sterile saline.
- Cleanses the medication port of the saline lock connector.
-With the nondominant hand, grasps the saline lock connector and
maintains control of it.

- Inserts the pre-prepared 18 gauge needle and syringe unit; injects 5 ml

of sterile saline into the saline lock connector, removes the needle and
syringe unit.
INSTRUCTOR: Observe to ensure there is no violation of aseptic technique by the student;

if in doubt, discard the saline lock connector, obtain new equipment and repeat the step.
sharps container.
l. Labels a piece of tape with date/time initiated and initials; secures the
tape over the transparent dressing.
m. Monitors the casualty and continues to observe the site for signs of
inflammation. Discontinues the saline lock if signs are observed.
n. Removes gloves and disposes of them appropriately.
o. Documents the procedure on the appropriate medical form.
REFERENCE:
Individual Task: 081-835-3025 Initiate a Saline Lock

DCMT10030 Initiate a Saline Lock
Task Completed
1st 2nd 3rd
INSTRUCTOR: This practical exercise is evaluated after DCMT10019 Initiate an Intravenous
Infusion has been successfully performed.

Inspected existing IV line to ensure patency. P / F P / F P / F

discard the needle and/or saline lock connector, obtain new equipment and repeat the step
Closed the flow-regulator completely. P / F P / F P / F
Removed the IV tubing. P / F P / F P / F
Attached the saline lock connector to the catheter hub. P / F P / F P / F
Applied a transparent dressing, covering both the catheter and the P / F P / F P / F

body of the saline lock connector.
Flushed the saline lock connector with sterile saline. P / F P / F P / F
INSTRUCTOR: Observe to ensure there is no violation of aseptic technique by the student;

if in doubt, discard the saline lock connector, obtain new equipment and repeat the step.
sharps container.
Labeled a piece of tape with date/time initiated and their initials; P / F P / F P / F
secured the tape over the dressing.
Monitored the casualty and continued to observe the venipuncture P / F P / F P / F
site for signs of inflammation.
Critical Criteria:
_____ Did not properly inspect the existing IV patency.
_____ Did not flush the saline lock with sterile saline.



Admin No/Title DCMT10031 Initiate an Intraosseous Infusion (F.A.S.T.1)

Number/Title
Introduction This practical exercise will confirm your ability to initiate a sternal
intraosseous infusion to obtain vascular access.
Motivator In managing a casualty that is exhibiting the signs and symptoms of

hypovolemic (hemorrhagic) shock, peripheral intravenous access
may not be possible. Vascular access by sternal intraosseous infusion
could make the difference between a casualty dying of the wounds
received or surviving evacuation to the next level of care.
Objective

initiating sternal intraosseous infusion using the
F.A.S.T.1 device
Conditions: Given an intraosseous trainer in a simulated combat

environment


Requirements

of protection.
Environmental None
Considerations
the accuracy of the student’s ability to initiate an IV on an intravenous
therapy trainer (DVC 08-05) and/or fellow student by means of observing
Instructional The lead Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle (BIFV) traveling directly in
Lead-in front of your vehicle has been struck by an IED. After securing the
immediate area, the casualties are moved to safety. Following your
initial assessment and rapid trauma assessment you determine that you
must establish peripheral intravenous access for one of the casualties in
order to initiate fluids. Despite several attempts at initiating a peripheral
IV, you are unable to establish venous access. You must establish
vascular access by sternal intraosseous (F.A.S.T.1) device; you have

DCMT10031 Initiate an Intraosseous Infusion (F.A.S.T.1) cont'd

Student Materials:
stocked with a basic load (to include IV solution, administration set and
FAST1 kit).

student.

known allergies.
d. Prepares and inspects equipment.
e. Dons gloves.
f. Locates the suprasternal notch.
- Cleanses the site with antimicrobial solution.
g. Emplaces the target patch using their index finger to ensure proper
alignment with the casualty's sternal notch.
h. Rechecks the location of the target patch.
i. With the target patch securely attached to the casualty's skin, places the
introducer (bone needle cluster) into the target zone of the target patch.
Maintains perpendicular aspect of the introducer to the manubrium.
j. Applies firm, increasing pressure along the axis of the introducer until a
distinct release is felt/heard.
WARNING: Extreme force, twisting or jabbing of the introducer must be avoided.
k. Gently removes the introducer by pulling straight back.
l. Flushes the infusion tube with 5 ml of sterile saline.
m. Connects the infusion tube to the right angle connector on the target
patch.
n. Opens the flow-regulator clamp and allows the fluid to run freely for
several seconds; adjusts to the desired flow rate.
o. Attaches the remover device to the casualty.
p. Removes gloves and disposes of them appropriately.
q. Documents the procedure on the appropriate medical form.
REFERENCE:
Individual Task: 081-833-0185 Initiate an Intraosseous Infusion

DCMT10019 Initiate an Intravenous Infusion
Task Completed
1st 2nd 3rd

Located the suprasternal notch. P / F P / F P / F
Emplaced the target patch using their index finger to ensure proper P / F P / F P / F
alignment with the casualty's sternal notch.
Rechecked the location of the target patch. P / F P / F P / F
Placed the introducer into the target zone of the target patch; P / F P / F P / F
maintained perpendicular aspect of the introducer to the manubrium.
Applied firm, increasing pressure along the axis of the introducer until P / F P / F P / F
a distinct release was felt/heard.
WARNING: Extreme force, twisting or jabbing of the introducer must be avoided.
Gently removed the introducer by pulling straight back. P / F P / F P / F
Flushed the infusion tube with 5 ml of sterile saline. P / F P / F P / F
Connected the infusion tube to the right angle connector on the target P / F P / F P / F
patch.
Opened the flow-regulator clamp and allowed the fluid to run freely P / F P / F P / F
for several seconds; adjusted to the desired flow rate.
Attached the remover device to the casualty. P / F P / F P / F
Critical Criteria:
_____ Did not properly maintain perpendicular aspect of the F.A.S.T.1 introducer.


Admin No/Title DCMT10033 Hypotensive Resuscitation

Number/Title
Introduction This practical exercise will confirm your ability to evaluate and manage a
hypotensive casualty at the point of wounding.
Motivator The timely and appropriate use of intravenous therapy by the soldier
medic could make the difference between a casualty dying of the
wounds received or surviving evacuation to the next level of care.
Objective
Action: Demonstrate the proper technique and procedures of

assessment and management of the hypotensive
casualty
Conditions: Given a casualty with unspecified wounds demonstrating

the signs and symptoms of hypovolemic shock in a
simulated combat environment


Requirements

of protection.
Environmental None
Considerations
the accuracy of the student’s ability to effectively assess and manage a
hypotensive casualty, using a fellow student or a mannequin,
resuscitative training (DVC 08-15) simulating a casualty, by means of
observing the student’s procedures and technique.
Instructional An infantryman is moving through a built-up area when artillery rounds

Lead-in impact approximately 20 meters from where he is standing. Once
counter-battery fire is initiated, you move forward to his position. As you
approach the casualty, you see him returning fire from a covered

DCMT10033 Hypotensive Resuscitation cont'd
position. You determine the position is secure enough for you to provide
emergency care from a kneeling position. You note considerable blood
coming from behind the casualty's thigh. You must assess and manage
this casualty; you have been provided the necessary medical equipment.

Student Materials:

student.
INSTRUCTOR: Inform the soldier that the casualty is now supine and behind cover.
b. Takes steps to control the hemorrhage first.

c. Initiates intravenous access by IV.
d. If unable to initiate peripheral venous access, considers a sternal IO line
(F.A.S.T.1).
e. Palpates for radial pulse and assesses casualty's mentation; reacts
appropriately.
- If radial pulse is present, and casualty is able, gives oral fluids.
- If radial pulse is absent, or casualty has altered mentation, starts
Hextend 500 ml as rapidly as possible.
INSTRUCTOR: Inform the soldier that 30 minutes has passed.
f. Re-checks the radial pulse in 30 minutes; reacts appropriately.

- If the radial pulse has returned, holds fluids (initiates a saline lock) and
rechecks as often as possible.
- If the radial pulse has not returned or mentation has not improved,
gives another 500 ml of Hextend.
INSTRUCTOR: Inform the soldier that another 30 minutes has passed.
g. Re-checks the radial pulse in 30 minutes; reacts appropriately.

- If radial pulse has returned, hold fluids (initiates a saline lock) and
evacuates the casualty as soon as possible.
- If radial pulse has not returned or mentation has not improved,
determines if additional casualties exist and amount of fluid available in
your medical aid bag.
h. Considers triaging medical supplies.
i. Protects the casualty from hypothermia pending evacuation.
j. Documents all care on the appropriate medical form.

REFERENCE:
Individual Task: 081-833-0033 Initiate an Intravenous Infusion
Individual Task: 081-833-0213 Perform Point of Wounding Care in a Tactical Environment
Individual Task: 081-835-3025 Initiate a Saline Lock

DCMT10033 Hypotensive Resuscitation
Task Completed
1st 2nd 3rd
INSTRUCTOR: Inform the soldier that the casualty is now supine and behind cover.
Took steps to control the hemorrhage first. P / F P / F P / F
Initiated intravenous access by IV. P / F P / F P / F
If unable to initiate peripheral venous access, considers a sternal IO P / F P / F P / F

line (F.A.S.T.1).
Palpated for radial pulse and assessed casualty's mentation; reacted P / F P / F P / F
appropriately.
INSTRUCTOR: Informs the soldier 30 minutes has passed.
Re-checked the radial pulse in 30 minutes; reacted appropriately. P / F P / F P / F
INSTRUCTOR: Inform the soldier that another 30 minutes has passed.
Re-checked the radial pulse in 30 minutes; reacted appropriately. P / F P / F P / F
Considered triaging medical supplies. P / F P / F P / F
Protected the casualty from hypothermia pending evacuation. P / F P / F P / F
Documented all care on the appropriate medical form. P / F P / F P / F
Critical Criteria:
_____ Did not identify criteria for fluid resuscitation correctly.
_____ Did not give oral fluids to the casualty with palpable radial pulse.
_____ Did not administer Hextend according to resuscitation criteria.
_____ Did not triage supplies if casualty did not respond.
_____ Did not protect the casualty from hypothermia.



Admin No/Title DCMT10032 Package a Casualty for Transport
Lesson C191W7TC/1 Battlefield Casualty Evacuation

Number/Title
Introduction This practical exercise will confirm your ability to package a casualty
quickly and effectively for safe evacuation.
Motivator With limited medical care providers available on the battlefield, it

becomes imperative that all soldiers know how to treat and evacuate
critically injured casualties. Conventional litters may not be available
until an evacuation asset arrives but many units are deploying assault
type litters onto the battlefield. You must be familiar with them and how
to effectively package a casualty for evacuation.
Objective
Action: Demonstrate the proper principles and techniques of

packaging a casualty for safe evacuation using various
improvised and assault litters available on the battlefield
Conditions: Given multiple trauma casualties in a simulated combat

environment


Requirements

Assessment potentially infectious so always observe body substance isolation (BSI )
of protection.
Environmental None
Considerations
the accuracy of the student’s ability to package a casualty for safe
evacuation using a soldier acting (role-playing) as a casualty by means
Instructional Your squad is the first to arrive at the site of an improvised explosive
Lead-in device (IED) explosion, all casualties require evacuation. Following the
initial assessment and triage of the casualties, you must use a cross -
section of improvised, standard and assault litters to move the casualties
100 meters down the road; you have been provided the necessary
medical equipment.


DCMT10032 Package a Casualty for Transport cont'd
Student Materials:

student.

b. Assembles materials and creates an improvised poncho litter.
- Spread an open poncho on the ground with hood tied off with the
drawstring.
- Lays one pole lengthwise across the center; folds the poncho (over the
pole) in half.
- Places the second pole at the center line of the folded poncho.
- Folds the free edges of the poncho over the second pole. Casualty's
weight will "lock" the poncho in place.
c. Assembles materials and creates an improvised pole and jacket litter.
- Buttons/snaps all buttons on two jackets or shirts.
- Turns the sleeves of the garments inside the body of the garment.
- Buttons/snaps the two jackets together at the lapels.
- Lays the jackets or shirts on the ground with the buttons/snaps toward
the ground.
- Places a litter pole through each sleeve, starting at the shoulder of one
jacket/shirt, inserting to the end of the pole, then inserting back through
the other jacket sleeve.
d. Assembles materials and creates an improvised pole and sack litter.
- Takes the closed end of a sack and cut holes in the corner large
enough to insert a litter pole through.
- Places two sacks, open-end to open-end flat on the ground.
- Places a litter pole through each sack opening, starting at the center of
one sack, inserting to the end of the pole, then inserting back through
the other sack.
- Overlaps the two open ends approximately 3 inches at the center of the
improvised litter.
e. Assembles materials and creates an improvised poncho litter without
poles.
- Spreads a poncho flat on the ground.
- Places the casualty across the center of the poncho.
- Tightly rolls the sides of the poncho towards the casualty in the center.
- Bearers will place their hands as close to the casualty as possible and
must support the head and neck of the casualty while lifting.
f. Secures a casualty to a SKEDCO litter.
- Removes the SKEDCO from the pack and places on the ground.
- Unfastens the retainer strap, step on the foot end of the SKEDCO and
unrolls completely to the opposite end.
- Bends the SKEDCO in half and rolls back; repeats the process with the
opposite end of the SKEDCO litter (the SKEDCO will now lay flat).

DCMT10032 Package a Casualty for Transport cont'd
- Places the SKEDCO litter next to the casualty. Ensures the head end
of the litter is adjacent to the casualty's head. Places the cross-straps
under the SKEDCO.
- Log-rolls the casualty and slides the SKEDCO litter as far under the
casualty as possible. Gently rolls the casualty down onto the SKEDCO
litter.
- Slides the casualty to the center of the SKEDCO litter. Being certain to
maintain spinal alignment.
- Pulls the straps out from under the SKEDCO litter.
- Lifts the sides of the SKEDCO and fastens the four cross-straps to the
buckles directly opposite from the straps.
- Lifts the foot portion of the SKEDCO litter and feed the foot straps
through the unused grommets at the foot end of the SKEDCO litter;
fastens to the buckles.
NOTE: The dragline is attached to the head portion of the SKEDCO litter and
used to transport the casualty off the battlefield.
g. Secures a casualty to a Talon litter.
- Unfolds the litter and places next to the casualty.
- Log-rolls the casualty and slides the Talon litter as far under the
casualty as possible. Gently rolls the casualty down onto the Talon litter.
- Secures the casualty to the Talon litter with the attached straps.
h. Documents procedures on the appropriate medical form.
REFERENCE:
Individual Task: 081-831-1046 Transport a Casualty

DCMT10032 Package a Casualty for Transport
Task Completed
1st 2nd 3rd
Assembled materials and created an improvised poncho litter. P / F P / F P / F
Assembled materials and created an improvised pole and jacket litter. P / F P / F P / F
Assembled materials and created an improvised pole and sack litter. P / F P / F P / F
Assembled materials and created an improvised poncho litter without P / F P / F P / F

poles.
Secured a casualty to a SKEDCO litter. P / F P / F P / F
Secured a casualty to a Talon litter. P / F P / F P / F
Critical Criteria:
_____ Did not maintain proper spinal alignment where applicable.
_____ Did not securely package the casualty in litter.

Admin No/Title DCMT10034 Perform Casualty Triage
Lesson C191W7TC/1 Battlefield Casualty Evacuation

Number/Title
Introduction This practical exercise will confirm your ability to perform triage of
multiple trauma casualties.
Motivator In combat, the casualties with the most severe injuries or the greatest
threat to life are not necessarily the ones that receive the first priority
when dealing with multiple casualty scenarios. In these situations,
consideration must be given to the likelihood of survival of the casualty
and the availability of limited resources. The predominant principle of
casualty triage is to treat and return to duty the greatest number soldiers
in the shortest possible time. This gives the combat commander
additional assets to defeat the enemy. A familiarity with the principles of
casualty triage will assist the soldier medic in rendering vitally important
emergency medical care to soldiers in a timely manner and will help
reduce the number of soldiers who die from their combat wounds.
Objective
Action: Demonstrate the proper principles and techniques of

casualty triage on an conventional battlefield
Conditions: Given multiple trauma casualties in a simulated combat

environment


Requirements

of protection.
Environmental None
Considerations
the accuracy of the student’s assessment and triage procedures, using
soldiers acting (role-playing) as a casualties, by means of observing the
student’s procedures and techniques.
Instructional Your squad is the first to arrive at the site of an improvised explosive
Lead-in device (IED) explosion, all casualties require evacuation. Following the
initial assessment and triage of the casualties, you must use a cross-
section of improvised, standard and assault litters to move the casualties

DCMT10034 Perform Casualty Triage cont'd
100 meters down the road; you have been provided the necessary
medical equipment.

Student Materials:
stocked with a basic load; various improvised and assault litters.

student.

b. Assesses each casualty.
- Conducts a quick visual assessment.
- Determines which casualties are the most seriously injured.
c. Manages the most seriously injured (salvageable) casualties first.
- Re-examines their general condition, types of injuries and need for
immediate life-saving measures.
- Conducts a sufficient assessment to identify injuries, initiates
life-saving treatments and determines priorities of treatment.
d. Bases their assessments on the casualty's viability and available
resources.
e. Performs continual re-evaluations; reassigns treatment/evacuation
priorities accordingly.
f. Requests medical evacuation.
- Requests addition evacuation assets as required.
- Loads casualties according to casualty category and vehicle availability.
g. Documents all care on the appropriate medical form.
REFERENCE:
Individual Task: 081-833-0080 Triage Casualties on a Conventional Battlefield

DCMT10034 Perform Casualty Triage
Task Completed
1st 2nd 3rd
Assessed each casualty. P / F P / F P / F
Managed the most seriously injured (salvageable) casualties first. P / F P / F P / F
Based their assessments on the casualty's viability and available P / F P / F P / F

resources.
Performed continual re-evaluations; reassigned treatment/evacuation P / F P / F P / F
priorities accordingly.
Requested medical evacuation. P / F P / F P / F
Critical Criteria:
_____ Did not assess each casualty.
_____ Did not reassess each casualty; reassign treatment /evacuation priorities.


Glossary
ACS Asherman Chest Seal

AO Area of Operation
ASAP As Soon As Possible
ATB Antibiotic
ATLS Advanced Trauma Life Support
AVPU Alert to Verbal, Pain, Unresponsive
BAMC Brooke Army Medical Center

BIAD Blind-Insertion Airway Device
BIFV Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle
BP Blood Pressure
BSI Body Substance Isolation
BVM Bag-Valve-Mask
C-A-T Combat Application Tourniquet

CASEVAC Combat Casualty Evacuation Care
CBRN Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Neurological
C-Collar Cervical Collar
C-spine Cervical Spine
CCP Casualty Collection Point
CCT Color, Condition, Temperature
CI Civilian Internee
CLS Combat Life Saver
cm Centimeter
CMAST Combat Medic Advanced Skills Training
CMVS Combat Medic Vest System
CO² Carbon Dioxide
CPR Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation
CPU Central Processing Unit [Computer]
CSF Cerebrospinal Fluid
CTL Combat Trauma Lanes
DA Department of the Army

DCMT Department of Combat Medic Training
DoD Department of Defense
DOW Died of Wounds
EC Enemy Combatants
EMT Emergency Medical Technicians
e.g. For Example
EPW Enemy Prisoner of War
etc. And so forth
ETD Emergency Trauma Dressing
ETT Endotracheal Tube
FBAO Foreign Body Airway Obstruction

FDA Food and Drug Administration
FFP Fresh Frozen Plasma
FMC Field Medical Card
ga Gauge
gm Gram
GSW Gunshot Wound
Department of Combat Medic Training Glossary -1 1 November 2005

HIV Human Immunodeficiency Virus

HMMWV High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle
HSD Hypertonic Saline and Dextran
IAW In Accordance With

ICP Intracranial Pressure
ICRC International Committee of the Red Cross
ICS Intercostal Space
ICV [Stryker] Infantry Carrier Vehicle
i.e. That is
IED Improvised Explosive Device
IFAK Improved First Aid Kit
IG Inspector General
IHL International Humanitarian law
IM Intramuscular
IO Intraosseous
IV Intravenous
IVC Inferior Vena Cava
IVP Intravenous Push
JVD Jugular Vein Distension
KVO Keep Vein Open
lbs Pounds
LOC Level of Consciousness
LR Lactated Ringers
MASCAL Mass Casualty

MCL Mid-clavicular Line
mcg Micrograms
MEDEVAC Medical Evacuation
METT-T Mission, Enemy, Terrain, Time, Troops
mg Milligram
min Minute
ml Milliliter
mmHg Millimeters of Mercury
MOI Mechanism of Injury
MP Military Police
MRE Meals Ready to Eat
MS Mental Status
MTF Medical Treatment Facility
MVC Motor Vehicle Crash
M-5 Medical Aid bag
Na+ Sodium
NaCl Sodium Chloride; Normal Saline
NBC Nuclear, Biological, Chemical
NCD Needle Chest Decompression
NPA Nasopharyngeal airway
NS Normal Saline
OD Other Detainee
OEF Operation Enduring Freedom
OIF Operation Iraqi Freedom
OPA Oropharyngeal Airway
OPSEC Operations Security

O² Oxygen
P Pulse
(P) Palpable [pulse]
PA Physician’s Assistant
PASG Pneumatic Anti-Shock Garment
PE Practical Exercise
P/F Pass or Fail
PHTLS Pre-Hospital Trauma Life Support
PMS Pulse, Motor, Sensory
PO By Mouth
POW Prisoner of War
PPF Plasma Protein Fraction
PRBC Packed Red Blood Cells
q Every
R Respirations
RL Ringers Lactate
RP Retained Person
RPG Rocket Propelled Grenade
SABA Self-Aid/Buddy-Aid
SAMPLE Signs & Symptoms, Allergies, Medications, Pertinent Past History, Last Oral
Intake, Events Leading to Illness or Injury
SECDEF Secretary of Defense
SF Standard Form
SKEDCO SKEDCO Litter
SOFTT Special Operations Forces Tactical Tourniquet
SR Student Reference
STD Sexually Transmitted Disease
SVC Superior Vena Cava
TB Tuberculosis
TBI Traumatic Brain Injury
TBSA Total Body Surface Area
TC-3 Tactical Combat Casualty Care
TKO To Keep Open
TM Tympanic Membrane
TR Trainer's Reference
TTPS Tactics, Techniques and Procedures
USAMEDDC&S United States Army Medical Department Center and School
vs. Versus
WALK Warrior Aid and Litter Kit

WWI World War One
91W Health Care Specialist

68W Health Care Specialist (as of FY 2007)

NOTES

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Combat Medic Advanced

A. C191W1TC/1 CMAST: Point of Wounding Care 1

B. C191W2TC/1 CMAST: Tactical Combat Casualty Care 5

C. C191W3TC/1 CMAST: Advanced Airway Techniques 15

D. C191W4TC/1 CMAST: Chest Trauma Management 21

E. C191W5TC/1 CMAST: Hemorrhage Control 27

F. C191W6TC/1 CMAST: Hypovolemic Shock Management 37

G. C191W7TC/1 CMAST: Battlefield Casualty Evacuation 45

H. C191W8TC/1 CMAST: Casualty Triage 49

I. C191W9TC/1 CMAST: International Humanitarian Law and the Geneva

J. C191WTCL/1 CMAST: Combat Trauma Lanes 65

DCMT10003 Insert an Oropharyngeal Airway (OPA) PE-1

DCMT10004 Insert a Nasopharyngeal Airway (NPA) PE-5

DCMT10009 Insert a Combitube PE-9

DCMT10010 Perform an Emergency Surgical Cricothyrotomy PE-15

DCMT10024 Manage an Open Pneumothorax PE-19

DCMT10015 Decompress the Chest: Needle Decompression PE-23

DCMT10025 Control Bleeding using an Emergency Trauma Dressing (ETD) PE-27

DCMT10026 Control Bleeding using an Improvised Tourniquet PE-31

DCMT10027 Control Bleeding using a Combat Application Tourniquet (C-A-T) PE-35

DCMT10028 Control Bleeding using a HemCon Chitosan Bandage PE-39

DCMT10029 Control Bleeding using QuickClot Hemostatic Powder PE-43

DCMT10019 Initiate an Intravenous Infusion PE-47

DCMT10030 Initiate a Saline Lock PE-53

Department of Combat Medic Training i

DCMT10031 Initiate an Intraosseous Infusion (F.A.S.T.1) PE-59

DCMT10033 Hypotensive Resuscitation PE-63

DCMT10032 Package a Casualty for Transport PE-69

DCMY10034 Perform Casualty Triage PE-73

Department of Combat Medic Training ii

A. C191W1TC/1 CMAST: Point of Wounding Care

Department of Combat Medic Training 1

Department of Combat Medic Training 2

Department of Combat Medic Training 3

Department of Combat Medic Training 4

(a) Factors influencing combat casualty care include:

Department of Combat Medic Training 5

3. Care Under Fire

Department of Combat Medic Training 6

l. Litters may not be available for movement of casualties.

(1) Return fire as directed or required.

(2) The casualty(s) should also return fire if able.

(3) Direct the casualty to cover and apply self-aid if able.

Department of Combat Medic Training 7

d. Initial assessment consists of airway, breathing and circulation.

(b) ETT entails the use of white-light on the battlefield.

Department of Combat Medic Training 8

Department of Combat Medic Training 9

j. Algorithm for fluid resuscitation.

Department of Combat Medic Training 10

Department of Combat Medic Training 11

q. Combat is a frightening experience especially if wounded. Reassurance to the casualty can be

Department of Combat Medic Training 12

(a) The soldier medic may be among the casualties.

(b) The soldier medic may be dehydrated, hypothermic or otherwise debilitated.

(b) Oxygen should be available during this phase.

(d) Thermal Angel fluid warmers may be needed to warm IV fluids.

Department of Combat Medic Training 13

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Department of Combat Medic Training 14