What are the three phases of care in TCCC?

The three phases of care in Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) are indeed Care Under Fire, Tactical Field Care, and Tactical Evacuation Care. This structured approach is designed for managing trauma in a combat environment and is essential for ensuring the effectiveness of medical interventions while maintaining the safety of both patients and rescuers.

Care Under Fire refers to the initial care provided while still in a combat zone, prioritizing tasks such as controlling severe bleeding and preparing for evacuation if necessary. This phase recognizes the dangers present in the battlefield and emphasizes the need to provide care while minimizing personal risk.

Tactical Field Care is the second phase, which occurs once the casualty has moved to a safer location. Here, responders can perform a more comprehensive assessment and provide critical treatment, including managing airway issues, administering medication, and addressing other injuries.

Finally, Tactical Evacuation Care refers to the phase where the casualty is moved to a higher level of care, typically through aircraft or ground transport. This stage ensures that ongoing medical interventions continue during transport.

This phased approach is vital for systematically addressing trauma and maximizing survival in high-risk situations, demonstrating a clear understanding of the unique challenges posed by combat environments.