Halo Chest Seal (Non-Vented) Field Manual | Standard Operating Procedure

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Halo Chest Seal (Non-Vented) Field Manual | Standard Operating Procedure

Category: Medical Tape & Bandages

Difficulty Level: Tier 3: Field Competency Required

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Written by: Valerie Ellis Lavin

Quick Overview

The HALO Chest Seal is a non-vented occlusive medical device used by tactical operators and first responders to seal open pneumothorax wounds, preventing atmospheric air from entering the pleural space through a penetrating thoracic injury and causing lung collapse.

The HALO Chest Seal deploys from a vacuum-sealed foil pouch containing two seals, enabling simultaneous treatment of both an entry and an exit wound, a standard consideration in ballistic trauma. Its medical-grade hydrogel adhesive is engineered to bond to skin despite the presence of blood, sweat, sand, or hair, and an integrated scrim stabilizes the gel across an operational temperature range of -30°F to 140°F. The anatomical oval shape, measuring 5.5 by 6.5 inches, provides wide adhesion margins over irregularly shaped wounds on contoured body surfaces.

Because this device creates a total occlusive seal without a one-way valve, it does not allow trapped air to escape from the pleural space. This means a developing tension pneumothorax is a constant and serious risk that requires continuous casualty monitoring throughout treatment. The large pull tab integrated into the seal's edge serves as the primary interface for manual venting: lift the seal edge for two to three seconds on exhalation to relieve pressure, then immediately reseal and resume monitoring.

Field readiness for this device requires pre-deployment inspection of the foil pouch for physical damage and confirmation that the vacuum seal remains intact. A properly sealed package will be flat and rigid. The device carries a six-year shelf life from the date of manufacture, and quarterly kit inspections are the minimum recommended standard for all operational personnel.

Field Application Steps

1. SECURE THE SCENE AND EXPOSE THE CASUALTY: Confirm the immediate threat has been neutralized before initiating care and move the casualty to a covered position if tactically feasible. Cut or tear away all clothing to fully expose the torso, including the front, back, and sides.

2. IDENTIFY ALL WOUNDS: Perform a rapid, thorough body sweep to locate all penetrating injuries, specifically searching for an exit wound in addition to the entry wound. Document wound locations before proceeding.

3. PREPARE THE WOUND SURFACE: Aggressively wipe the skin around each wound to clear blood, sweat, and debris. A dry surface is not required, but a clean surface improves adhesion quality.

4. OPEN THE PACKAGE: Grip the tear notches on either side of the foil pouch and open it with direct, controlled force. Remove both seals and set the second seal within immediate reach.

5. PEEL THE RELEASE LINER: Grasp the first seal by its pull tab or non-adhesive tape edge to avoid contaminating the gel surface. Peel away the clear release liner to expose the HALO gel adhesive immediately before application.

6. APPLY THE SEAL AT FULL EXHALATION: If the casualty is conscious, instruct them: "Take a deep breath in, now blow it all the way out and hold it." At full exhalation, firmly place the adhesive side over the wound with the wound centered under the seal.

7. PRESS AND BOND: Press down firmly from the center of the seal outward, smoothing the adhesive to eliminate air gaps and ensure a complete occlusive bond across the full contact surface.

8. TREAT ALL WOUNDS: If an exit wound was identified, retrieve the second seal and repeat Steps 5 through 7. Treat the more severe or rapidly bleeding wound first. Log-roll the casualty as needed to access posterior wounds, maintaining spinal stabilization if warranted.

9. POSITION THE CASUALTY: If tactically viable, position the casualty sitting up and leaning toward the uninjured side to reduce pressure on the affected lung.

10. MONITOR CONTINUOUSLY FOR TENSION PNEUMOTHORAX: Watch for increasing respiratory distress, anxiety, falling oxygen saturation, tracheal deviation, or onset of shock. These are signs that trapped air is accumulating and intervention is required.

11. VENT THE SEAL IF TENSION PNEUMOTHORAX DEVELOPS: Grasp the pull tab, lift the seal edge for two to three seconds during exhalation. A rush of air may be heard or felt as pressure is relieved. Immediately reseal and continue monitoring without interruption.

Equip Yourself: Halo Chest Seal – Twin Pack Non-Vented (IFAK Size)

Ensure you have the right gear before an emergency strikes.

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LEGAL DISCLAIMER & SAFETY WARNING:
The information provided in this Luminary Global Field Manual is strictly for educational and informational purposes. It is not a substitute for formal medical, tactical, or professional training. In the event of a medical emergency, immediately seek professional help or contact emergency services. Luminary Global assumes no liability for the misuse of equipment, improper application of techniques, or any injuries/damages resulting from the use of these guidelines. Always rely on your official agency training, local laws, and established protocols during a crisis.