EFMB Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield EFMB facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Which change in a patient's condition should prompt a triage officer to UPGRADE a casualty from Delayed (T2) to Immediate (T1)? → Declining mental status and dropping blood pressure
2. An unconscious casualty with no gag reflex needs airway management. What is the preferred airway adjunct in TCCC? → Nasopharyngeal airway (NPA)
3. A casualty has a gunshot wound to the neck with active bleeding. What is the preferred hemorrhage control method? → Wound packing with hemostatic gauze and direct pressure
4. When establishing a patrol base during field training, the medic's primary responsibility includes: → Conducting a health and welfare check of all soldiers
5. How many MARK 1 autoinjector kits can a buddy administer to a nerve agent casualty if symptoms persist? → 3 kits total, then reassess
6. Which regulatory requirement is UNIVERSAL across all Expert Field Medical Badge practice settings? → Maintaining current certification and meeting continuing education requirements
7. What equipment is used to decompress a tension pneumothorax in the field? → 14-gauge needle at the 2nd intercostal space, midclavicular line
8. How does mental toughness play a role in trauma care? → It helps them stay calm and focused during critical situations
9. Which litter carry technique is best suited for moving a casualty through narrow corridors or confined spaces? → SKED litter drag
10. What is the first action when a combat casualty goes into cardiac arrest due to non-traumatic causes (e.g., heat stroke)? → Begin CPR immediately
11. What documentation is MOST critical to maintain for safety compliance in the Expert Field Medical Badge field? → Incident reports, training records, and inspection logs
12. During EFMB preparation, why is acclimatization important before conducting physical performance testing in hot environments? → Acclimatization increases plasma volume and improves thermoregulation over 7-14 days
13. When applying a tourniquet, how far above the wound should it be placed? → 2–3 inches proximal to the wound
14. A soldier collapses during a field training exercise with hot, dry skin and altered mental status. This presentation is most consistent with: → Heat stroke
15. When a medic observes a fellow candidate performing a skill incorrectly during a non-evaluated training event, the MOST appropriate leadership action is: → Provide immediate peer feedback focused on the specific technique and the correct standard
16. Which risk management approach is MOST effective for EFMB professionals when evaluating potential workplace hazards? → Proactive hazard identification and assessment
17. What is the primary purpose of administering tranexamic acid (TXA) in combat casualties? → To inhibit fibrinolysis and preserve clot formation
18. A casualty with a penetrating eye injury should have the eye: → Covered with a rigid shield without applying pressure
19. What role does confidence play in leadership during combat operations? → It builds trust and empowers the team to follow through with plans
20. When conducting a risk assessment for EFMB operations, which factor should receive the HIGHEST priority? → Probability and severity of potential harm
21. What does the acronym MEDEVAC stand for? → Medical Evacuation
22. Which condition is characterized by painful muscle spasms due to salt depletion during prolonged physical exertion? → Heat cramps
23. In a chemical agent mass casualty event, what must occur BEFORE triage and treatment begin? → Decontaminate casualties to prevent cross-contamination of providers
24. The EFMB written test requires a minimum score of what percentage to pass? → 80%
25. Why is it important to quickly recognize signs of a traumatic brain injury (TBI) in the field? → To ensure quick evacuation and treatment
26. What is the primary concern when treating a casualty with shock? → Restore circulation and oxygen to vital organs
27. What is the purpose of adding a hemostatic dressing (such as Combat Gauze) compared to a plain gauze dressing? → It contains kaolin or chitosan to accelerate clot formation
28. What is the main focus of endurance training in combat medicine? → To maintain effectiveness despite fatigue
29. Which personal protective equipment (PPE) principle applies to ALL EFMB certified professionals regardless of their specific role? → PPE must be properly fitted, maintained, and replaced as needed
30. What is the purpose of the 'MARCH' acronym in tactical combat casualty care? → To prioritize life-threatening injuries in a systematic order