Deployment Protocol: Initial Scene Assessment
Ensure scene safety before approaching any casualty. Don Personal Protective Equipment including gloves from the 5 pairs included in the kit. Conduct a rapid visual sweep of the environment to identify ongoing threats before opening the pack.
Hemorrhage Control: Bleeding Assessment and Treatment
Identify and control all life-threatening hemorrhage immediately using the C-MARCH protocol. Apply a CAT tourniquet or SOFTT-W tourniquet to extremity bleeds. For junctional or non-extremity bleeds, apply one of the 3 QuikClot 4x4 hemostatic dressings or BleedStop bandages with direct pressure. Cover with a 4 inch or 6 inch trauma dressing and secure with a multi-trauma dressing for wound packing.
Airway Management
Assess patient airway, breathing, and circulation using the stethoscope and blood pressure unit to establish baseline vitals. If the patient is unconscious and airway is compromised, insert an 80mm or 110mm oral airway adjunct from the airway kit. Use a CPR face shield if rescue breathing is required.
Secondary Survey: Full Body Assessment
Conduct a full-body assessment from head to toe to identify and manage secondary injuries. Use trauma shears to expose wounds quickly. Use straight or curved hemostats for hemorrhage control on smaller bleeds. Apply butterfly closure bandages and wound closure strips for lacerations not requiring sutures.
Fracture Management
Immobilize suspected fractures using the 2 included SAM splints. Secure with elastic bandages from the 6 available 2 inch by 5 yard rolls and 3 available 6 inch by 5 yard rolls. Apply a cervical collar for suspected spinal injuries. Use cold packs for pain management and swelling reduction.
Hypothermia Prevention and Monitoring
Prevent hypothermia using the 2 emergency blankets. Monitor patient continuously using the penlight for pupil response and the blood pressure unit and stethoscope for ongoing vital sign assessment. Document findings using the first aid guide included in the kit.
Quarterly Maintenance Protocol
Conduct a full inventory check by laying out all contents and verifying against the component list. Check expiration dates on all hemostatic agents, medications, and sterile dressings. Inspect the backpack for tears, broken buckles, or failing zippers. Repack with the most critical life-saving items in the most accessible locations. Keep like items together in designated pouches. Utilize internal cinch straps to secure larger items. Tighten all 6 external compression straps after zipping the pack closed. Mark the next quarterly inspection date on a calendar and store a laminated copy of the component checklist inside the front pocket.
