During Tactical Field Care, what type of injury should be assessed first?

In Tactical Field Care, the priority for assessment and treatment is based on the immediate threat to life, particularly the Airway. Any airway obstruction represents a critical situation because if the airway is compromised, the patient cannot breathe, leading to rapid deterioration and potential death. Therefore, ensuring that the airway is clear and patently open is the first step in a primary survey.

Addressing airway issues first is consistent with the principles of Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC), where stabilizing the patient’s ability to breathe is paramount. After assessing the airway, attention can then be directed to other serious injuries, such as severe bleeding or fractures, but airway management takes precedence due to its direct impact on survivability.