What are the three phases of tactical combat casualty care (TCCC)?

The correct answer highlights the structure of TCCC by identifying its three distinct phases: care under fire, tactical field care, and tactical evacuation care.

In the first phase, care under fire, the focus is on providing life-saving interventions while still under potential enemy fire. This involves minimizing the time spent on the battlefield and prioritizing safety for both the casualty and the rescuer while controlling hemorrhage, often with the use of tourniquets and bleeding control measures.

During the second phase, tactical field care, the emphasis shifts to providing care once the casualty is in a safer environment, allowing for more comprehensive medical interventions. This phase includes monitoring vital signs, performing additional assessments, managing airway issues, and addressing other injuries as necessary.

The final phase, tactical evacuation care, pertains to the transport of the casualty to a medical facility. This phase includes ongoing monitoring and treatment during evacuation to ensure that the casualty remains stable during transit and any additional necessary interventions are performed until definitive care is provided.

Understanding these phases ensures that combat medics and other responders are well-prepared to manage trauma efficiently and effectively in high-stress and dangerous environments. This structured approach enables a clear framework for prioritizing life-saving measures while considering the ever-changing dynamics of a combat situation.