Tactical Field Care Flashcards
9 cards from real TCCC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 9 Tactical Field Care flashcards as text
What is the focus during Tactical Field Care?
Answer: Begin full trauma assessment
During Tactical Field Care, the focus shifts to beginning a full trauma assessment and providing comprehensive medical treatment. This phase occurs once the casualty is moved to a relatively safer area where the immediate threat of hostile fire has been mitigated. Rescuers can then systematically address all injuries, stabilize the patient, and prepare for evacuation.
Which airway device is commonly used in Tactical Field Care?
Answer: Nasopharyngeal airway
The Nasopharyngeal Airway (NPA) is commonly used in Tactical Field Care for airway management. It is preferred because it can be inserted in conscious or unconscious casualties, is generally well-tolerated, and does not typically induce a gag reflex. The NPA helps maintain an open airway by bypassing obstructions in the nose and pharynx, which is crucial for oxygenation and ventilation.
What does the 'MARCH' acronym in TCCC stand for?
Answer: Massive hemorrhage, Airway, Respiration, Circulation, Head injury
The 'MARCH' acronym in TCCC stands for Massive hemorrhage, Airway, Respiration, Circulation, and Head injury/Hypothermia. This mnemonic provides a prioritized sequence for assessing and treating combat casualties, ensuring that the most immediate life-threatening injuries are addressed first. It guides medical interventions from controlling severe bleeding to managing airway, breathing, and circulatory issues.
How should a tension pneumothorax be treated?
Answer: Perform needle decompression
A tension pneumothorax should be treated by performing needle decompression. This life-saving procedure involves inserting a needle into the chest to release trapped air, which is compressing the lung and heart. Untreated tension pneumothorax can rapidly lead to circulatory collapse and death, making prompt decompression a critical intervention in TCCC.
When should antibiotics be given in Tactical Field Care?
Answer: For open wounds
Antibiotics should be given in Tactical Field Care for open wounds to prevent infection. Combat wounds are often contaminated with dirt, debris, and bacteria, making them highly susceptible to infection. Prophylactic antibiotics are a critical component of TCCC to reduce the risk of wound infection, which can complicate recovery and lead to severe complications.
Which IV fluid is preferred for resuscitation?
Answer: Hextend
Hextend (Hetastarch) is a preferred IV fluid for resuscitation in TCCC because it is a colloid, which is more effective at expanding intravascular volume than crystalloids like normal saline. Colloids stay in the bloodstream longer, requiring smaller volumes to achieve resuscitation goals and reducing the risk of hypothermia and coagulopathy often associated with large volumes of crystalloids. Whole blood is also highly preferred if available.
What should be done for a casualty with penetrating eye trauma?
Answer: Cover both eyes
For a casualty with penetrating eye trauma, both eyes should be covered. This is because the eyes move sympathetically; if one eye moves, the other will also move. Covering both eyes prevents involuntary movement of the injured eye, which could exacerbate the trauma and cause further damage. It helps protect the injured eye until definitive medical care can be provided.
How often should vital signs be reassessed?
Answer: Every 5–15 minutes
TCCC guidelines mandate frequent reassessment of vital signs, typically every 5-15 minutes, due to the dynamic and often critical nature of combat injuries. This regular monitoring allows medical personnel to promptly detect any deterioration or improvement in the casualty's condition. Timely identification of changes is crucial for adjusting treatment plans and ensuring the most effective care during tactical field care and evacuation.
What is the purpose of pain control in Tactical Field Care?
Answer: To minimize suffering and improve function
In Tactical Field Care, pain control is administered to minimize the casualty's suffering and anxiety, which can otherwise exacerbate their physical and psychological state. By effectively managing pain, the casualty can better cooperate with treatment, maintain mental clarity, and potentially assist in their own care or evacuation. This improves overall function and survivability, rather than aiming for sedation or preventing consciousness.