TCCC Quick Reference Guide 2017
TCCC Quick Reference Guide 2017
Copyright 2017
TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
(TCCC / TC3)
EDITOR:
HAROLD R. MONTGOMERY, ATP
MSG(RET), U.S. ARMY
Copyright Statement:
The copyright holder retains reproduction and royalty licensing for all other
individuals or organizations except the U.S. Government. No part of the
material protected by this copyright may be reproduced or utilized in any form,
electronic or mechanical, including photography, recording, or by any
information storage and retrieval system, without written permission from the
copyright owner.
ISBN: 978-0-692-90697-2
TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
(TCCC / TC3)
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TCCC PHARMACOLOGY........PAGE 41
GLOSSARY.....PAGE 51
CONVERSIONS....PAGE 52
FORWARD
Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) has saved hundreds of lives during our nation's conflicts in Iraq and
Afghanistan. Nearly 90% of combat fatalities occur before the casualty reaches a Medical treatment facility, it
is clear that the prehospital phase of care is the focus of efforts to reduce deaths in combat. Very few military
physicians, however, have had training in this area. As a result, at the onset of hostilities, most combat
Medics, corpsmen, and para-rescue personnel (PJs) in the US Military were trained to perform battlefield
trauma care through the use of civilian-based trauma courses that were not designed for the prehospital
combat environment and did not reflect contemporary knowledge in this area.
This challenge was met by the Committee on TCCC (CoTCCC) voting members and its many liaison members
that collectively comprise the TCCC Working Group. This remarkably eclectic group includes trauma surgeons,
emergency medicine physicians, internists, family medicine physicians, operational physicians and physician
assistants, combat medical educators, trauma researchers, pathologists, combat medical doctrine developers,
medical equipment specialists, and combat medics, corpsmen, and PJs. All of the US Armed Services are well-
represented in the group's membership and 100% of the CoTCCC voting members have been to war. The
CoTCCC and the TCCC Working Group represents different services, disciplines, and military experiences, all
brought to bear on a single goal - reducing preventable deaths on the battlefield.
No such group existed when the Twin Towers fell. The US Special Operations Command initially funded the
group as a research effort, then ownership of the group was successively assumed by the Naval Operational
Medicine Institute, the Defense Health Board, and now the Joint Trau-ma System.
This group has taken the TCCC Guidelines as they existed in 2001 and continually updated them throughout
the 15 years of war, based on input from the Joint Trauma System Performance Improvement trauma
teleconferences, published case reports and case series from the war zones, breakthroughs in military Medical
research, and new publications from the civilian medical literature that bear on combat trauma. It has
processed a continual steam of input from the battlefield throughout the war years and ensured that
battlefield trauma care lessons learned were not just noted, but acted upon.
Through the ongoing volunteer efforts of this dedicated group of individuals - which met quarterly throughout
most of the war - US Forces have had prehospital trauma care guidelines that were customized for the
battlefield and updated continuously based on real-time evaluation of outcomes from ongoing combat
operations. This is the first time in our nation's history that this has occurred.
The success of TCCC effort had been well documented. It is a great tribute to all of the members of the CoTCCC
and the TCCC Working Group, that it has been able to transcend service and Medical specialty differences,
process new information expertly, and develop evidence-based, best-practice guidelines that have completely
transformed battlefield trauma care..
It is to the Committee on TCCC and all of our valued colleagues in the TCCC Working Group that this TCCC text
is dedicated. Our country and its casualties owe you all a profound measure of thanks.
Frank Butler, MD
CAPT (Retired), MC, USN
Chairman, Committee on Tactical Combat Casualty Care
TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
(TCCC / TC3)
Airway management is generally best deferred until the Tactical Field Care phase.
Triage Casualties as required. Altered mental status is criteria to have weapons cleared/secured, communications gear
secured and sensitive items redistributed.
Massive Hemorrhage
Assess for unrecognized hemorrhage and control all life-threatening bleeding.
Use a CoTCCC approved hemostatic dressing for compressible hemorrhage not amenable to limb tourniquet
use.
Immediately apply a CoTCCC-recommended junctional tourniquet if the bleeding site is amenable to use of a
junctional tourniquet.
Airway Management
Unconscious casualty without airway obstruction:
-Chin lift or jaw thrust maneuver
-Nasopharyngeal airway
-Place the casualty in the recovery position
Casualty with airway obstruction or impending airway obstruction:
-Allow a conscious casualty to assume any position that best protects the airway, to include sitting up
-Chin lift or jaw thrust maneuver
-Nasopharyngeal airway
-Place an unconscious casualty in the recovery position
If the previous measures are unsuccessful perform a surgical cricothyroidotomy using one of the following:
-CricKey technique
-Bougie-aided open surgical technique
-Standard open surgical technique
*Use lidocaine if the casualty is conscious
4
TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
(TCCC / TC3)
Analgesia/Pain Management
Analgesia on the battlefield should generally be achieved by one of three options:
Mild to Moderate Pain and/or Casualty can swallow and is still able to fight:
-Administer TCCC Combat Wound Medication Pack (CWMP)
Moderate to Severe Pain and casualty IS NOT in Shock
-Oral Transmucosal Fentanyl Citrate (OTFC) 800mcg
Moderate to Severe Pain and casualty is in hemorrhagic shock or respiratory distress
-Administer Ketamine 50mg IM or IN repeating q30min prn
OR
-Administer Ketamine 20mg Slow IV or IO repeating q20min prn
6
TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
(TCCC / TC3)
Communication
Communicate with the casualty if possible. Encourage, reassure, and explain care.
Communicate with tactical leadership ASAP and throughout treatment. Provide casualty status and evac
requirements.
Communicate with the evacuation system to arrange TACEVAC.
Communicate with medical personnel on evacuation assets and relay mechanism of injury, injuries sustained,
signs/symptoms and treatments rendered.
Documentation
Document clinical assessments, treatments rendered, and changes in the casualty's status on a TCCC Casualty Card (DD
Form 1380) and forward this information with the casualty to the next level of care.
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
Battlefield blast or penetrating trauma casualties with no pulse, no ventilations, and no other signs of life
should not be resuscitated.
Casualties with torso trauma or polytrauma with no pulse or respirations should have bilateral needle
decompression performed to confirm/deny tension pneumothorax prior to discontinuing care.
7
TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
(TCCC / TC3)
Communication
Communicate with the casualty if possible. Encourage, reassure, and explain care
Communicate with next level of care and relay mechanism of injury, injuries sustained, signs/symptoms, and
treatments rendered.
8
TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
ALGORITHM
Use CoTCCC
Recommended Limb Limb * Extrication
Tourniquet applied YES Tourniquet -Casualties should be extricated from
proximal to bleeding Indicated? burning vehicles or buildings and moved
site to relative safety. Do what is necessary
to stop burning process.
NO
Place tourniquets High &
Tight if bleeding site is not
Continue with Fight /
easily identifiable
Mission
Casualty Movement:
- The fastest method is dragging along
the long axis of patients body by two
rescuers.
Airway management is Move casualty to CCP or -Spinal precautions or stabilization should
generally best deferred until secure area and initiate only be considered after a casualty is
the Tactical Field Care phase Tactical Field Care removed from the enemy threat and
indicated by mechanism of injury.
Indicates Combat
Paramedic or SOF Medic
capability level skill
9
TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
ALGORITHM
TACTICAL FIELD CARE
In accordance with
CoTCCC Guidelines Triage as required.
As Of: 31 JAN 2017
MASSIVE
HEMORRHAGE
Uncontrolled
Massive External NO
Hemorrhage or
Traumatic Amputation
Present?
YES
YES NO
Use CoTCCC-recommended
Hemorrhage Controlled?
Hemostatic Dressing/Agent
YES
Apply CoTCCC-recommended Amenable to Junctional
Junctional Device Device?
Assess minimal bleeding after airway
and breathing management
NO
YES NO
Maintain Pressure with CoTCCC-
Hemorrhage
recommended Hemostatic Dressing/
Controlled?
Agent and Direct Pressure
Assess Airway
Assess Respiration /
Breathing
Indicates Combat
Paramedic or SOF Medic
capability level skill
11
TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
ALGORITHM
TACTICAL FIELD CARE CONTINUED
In accordance with
RESPIRATION / BREATHING
CoTCCC Guidelines
As Of: 31 JAN 2017
Assess Respiration /
Breathing
NO Progressive Respiratory NO
Open/Sucking
Distress and Known or
Chest Wound?
Suspected Torso Trauma?
YES
YES
Suspect/Consider Tension
Pneumothorax Apply Vented Chest Seal to all open/
sucking chest wounds
Needle Decompress Chest at Primary
or Alternate Site on injured side.
Repeat as necessary. Vented chest seals are
preferred over non-vented.
Primary Site:
2nd Intercostal Space/ Indicates Combat Medic
Midclavicular line capability level skill
CONTINUE TACTICAL FIELD CARE
CIRCULATION
(BLEEDING)
In accordance with
CoTCCC Guidelines Bleeding Assessment
As Of: 31 JAN 2017
NO
Before 2 hours, reassess: if not in shock,
able to monitor the wound closely for
bleeding, and no amputation control Move original tourniquet to position next
bleeding with hemostatic and/or pressure to second tourniquet directly on skin and
dressing. Do not remove if TQ in place tighten both until bleeding stopped and
>6 hours. distal pulse not palpated
CIRCULATION
(INTRAVENOUS ACCESS)
In accordance with
CoTCCC Guidelines
As Of: 31 JAN 2017
IV/IO Indications:
-In hemorrhagic shock or at NO
significant risk of shock IV access indicated?
-Casualty needs IV/IO
medications
YES
CIRCULATION
(TRANEXAMIC ACID)
Indicates Combat
Paramedic or SOF Medic
capability level skill
14
TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
ALGORITHM
TACTICAL FIELD CARE CONTINUED
CIRCULATION
(SHOCK / FLUID RESUSCITATION)
In accordance with
CoTCCC Guidelines Assess for Shock
As Of: 31 JAN 2017
Shock Criteria: NO
Hemorrhagic shock
-Altered Mental Status (in absence of TBI)
present?
-Weak/Absent Radial Pulse
If not in shock, NO IV fluids are
YES immediately necessary
HYPOTHERMIA
PREVENTION
In accordance with
CoTCCC Guidelines Minimize casualty environmental exposure / promote heat retention
As Of: 31 JAN 2017
Keep Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) on if feasible and warranted
Replace wet clothes if possible Hypothermia prevention and fluid
resuscitation should be executed
Use CoTCCC recommended hypothermia prevention equipment if available simultaneously if possible
Use dry blankets, poncho liner or sleeping bag. Keep casualty dry.
Warm IV fluids are preferred if possible
PENETRATING EYE
TRAUMA
Indicates Combat
Paramedic or SOF Medic
capability level skill
16
TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
ALGORITHM
Casualties with
Disarm casualty moderate to
Administer Combat Wound Medication Pack severe pain are
Tylenol 650 mg bilayer caplet, 2 PO q8h likely not able to
Meloxicam 15 mg PO qd Document Mental Status
fight.
END POINT:
Control of pain or Nystagmus development
Add a second OTFC 800 ug
in 15 min if needed
ANTIBIOTICS
YES NO
Moxifloxacin 400 mg PO qd Ertapenem 1 gm IV/IM qd
PO Able?
(CWMP)
Indicates Combat
Paramedic or SOF Medic
capability level skill
17
TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
ALGORITHM
BURNS
NO
Burns?
YES
NO
Consider early surgical airway for respiratory
distress or O2 desaturation
YES
Initiate Fluid Resuscitation using USAISR Rule
Burns >20%?
of 10 using LR, NS or Hextend
COMMUNICATION
In accordance with
CoTCCC Guidelines Communicate with casualty, tactical leadership, and
As Of: 31 JAN 2017 medical providers in evacuation chain
Encourage, reassure, explain Provide casualty status and Communicate with medical
care if possible evacuation requirements to providers on evac asset if
assist in evac coordination possible.
DOCUMENTATION
Indicates Combat
Paramedic or SOF Medic
capability level skill
19
TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
ALGORITHM
In accordance with
CoTCCC Guidelines
As Of: 31 JAN 2017
In accordance with
CoTCCC Guidelines
As Of: 31 JAN 2017 TRANSITION OF CARE
Tactical Force
Indicates Combat
Paramedic or SOF Medic
capability level skill
21
TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
ALGORITHM
In accordance with
CoTCCC Guidelines
As Of: 31 JAN 2017 Re-Assess casualties and re-evaluate all injuries and
Triage multiple casualties onto
previous interventions
evacuation platform as required
MASSIVE
HEMORRHAGE
Uncontrolled
Massive External NO
Hemorrhage or
Traumatic Amputation
Present?
YES
YES NO
Use CoTCCC-recommended
Hemorrhage Controlled?
Hemostatic Dressing/Agent
YES
Apply CoTCCC-recommended Amenable to Junctional
Junctional Device Device?
Assess minimal bleeding after airway
and breathing management
NO
YES NO
Maintain Pressure with CoTCCC-
Hemorrhage
recommended Hemostatic Dressing/
Controlled?
Agent and Direct Pressure
Indicates Combat
Paramedic or SOF Medic
capability level skill
22
TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
ALGORITHM
AIRWAY
In accordance with
CoTCCC Guidelines
As Of: 31 JAN 2017
Assess Airway
NO Previous Airway
Supraglottic Airway
Procedures Successful?
OR
Endotracheal Intubation
YES
OR
Perform Surgical
Cricothyroidotomy
Assess Respiration /
Breathing
Indicates Combat
Paramedic or SOF Medic
capability level skill
23
TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
ALGORITHM
RESPIRATION /
In accordance with BREATHING
CoTCCC Guidelines
As Of: 31 JAN 2017
Assess Respiration /
Breathing
NO
NO Progressive Respiratory
Open/Sucking
Distress and Known or
Chest Wound?
Suspected Torso Trauma?
YES
YES
Suspect/Consider Tension
Pneumothorax Apply Vented Chest Seal to all open/
sucking chest wounds
Needle Decompress Chest at Primary
or Alternate Site on injured side.
Repeat as necessary. Vented chest seals are
preferred over non-vented.
NO
In accordance with
CoTCCC Guidelines
As Of: 31 JAN 2017 Bleeding Assessment
NO
Before 2 hours, reassess: if not in shock,
able to monitor the wound closely for
Move original tourniquet to position next
bleeding, and no amputation control
to second tourniquet directly on skin and
bleeding with hemostatic and/or pressure
tighten both until bleeding stopped and
dressing. Do not remove if TQ in place
distal pulse not palpated
>6 hours.
In accordance with
CoTCCC Guidelines CIRCULATION
(INTRAVENOUS ACCESS)
As Of: 31 JAN 2017
IV/IO Indications:
-In hemorrhagic shock or at NO
significant risk of shock IV access indicated?
-Casualty needs IV/IO
medications
YES
CIRCULATION
(TRANEXAMIC ACID)
Indicates Combat
Paramedic or SOF Medic
capability level skill
26
TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
ALGORITHM
TACTICAL EVACUATION CARE
(TACEVAC)
CIRCULATION
In accordance with (SHOCK / FLUID RESUSCITATION)
CoTCCC Guidelines
As Of: 31 JAN 2017
Assess for Shock
Shock Criteria: NO
Hemorrhagic shock
-Altered Mental Status (in absence of TBI)
present?
-Weak/Absent Radial Pulse
If not in shock, NO IV fluids are
YES immediately necessary
Indicates Combat
Paramedic or SOF Medic
capability level skill
27
TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
ALGORITHM
In accordance with
CoTCCC Guidelines TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY (TBI)
As Of: 31 JAN 2017
TBI Indicators:
-Obvious mechanism of injury
Assess for traumatic brain -Loss of consciousness >30 min
injury (TBI) -Confused of disoriented state
-Moderate TBI GCS 9-13
-Severe TBI GCS 3-8
Moderate/Severe TBI NO
suspected?
YES
Monitored for:
-Decreased level of consciousness
-Pupillary dilation
-SBP should be >90 mmHg
-O2 sat>90
-Hypothermia
-PCO2 maintained between 35-40 mmHg
-Penetrating head trauma (administer antibiotics)
-Assume a spinal (neck) injury until cleared
HERNIATION INDICATORS:
-Assymetric Pupils / Unilateral
YES pupillary dilation accompanied by
-Administer 250 ml of 3% or 5% hypertonic Impending herniation
decreased level of consciousness.
saline bolus suspected?
-Fixed Dilated Pupil
-Elevate the casualtys head 30 degrees -Extensor Posturing
-Widening Pulse Pressure
-Hyperventilate the casualty at 20 breaths/min
NO
with highest O2 concentration available
Initiate capnography if available to maintain
end-tidal CO2 between 30-35mmHg
Indicates Combat
Paramedic or SOF Medic
capability level skill
28
TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
ALGORITHM
TACTICAL EVACUATION CARE
(TACEVAC)
HYPOTHERMIA
In accordance with PREVENTION
CoTCCC Guidelines
As Of: 31 JAN 2017 Minimize casualty environmental exposure / promote heat retention
Keep Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) on if feasible and warranted
Replace wet clothes if possible Hypothermia prevention and fluid
resuscitation should be executed
Use CoTCCC recommended hypothermia prevention equipment if available simultaneously if possible
Use dry blankets, poncho liner or sleeping bag. Keep casualty dry.
Use portable fluid warmer to warm all IV fluids including blood.
PENETRATING EYE
TRAUMA
Advanced non-invasive electronic monitoring and recording of vital Indicates All Combatants
signs should be initiated if possible and available. and Combat Lifesaver
capability level skill
Indicates Combat
Paramedic or SOF Medic
capability level skill
29
TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
ALGORITHM
TACTICAL EVACUATION CARE
(TACEVAC)
Disarm casualty
Administer Combat Wound Medications Pack
Tylenol 650 mg bilayer caplet, 2 PO q8h
Meloxicam 15 mg PO qd Document Mental Status
END POINT:
Control of pain or Nystagmus development
Add a second OTFC 800 ug
in 15 min if needed
ANTIBIOTICS
YES NO
Moxifloxacin 400 mg PO qd Ertapenem 1 gm IV/IM qd
PO Able?
(CWMP)
BURNS
NO
Burns?
YES
NO
Consider early surgical airway for respiratory
distress or O2 desaturation
YES
Initiate Fluid Resuscitation using USAISR Rule
Burns >20%?
of 10 using LR, NS or Hextend
COMMUNICATION
In accordance with
CoTCCC Guidelines
As Of: 31 JAN 2017 Communicate with casualty and medical providers
in evacuation chain
DOCUMENTATION
Indicates Combat
Paramedic or SOF Medic
capability level skill
32
33
34
TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
(TCCC / TC3)
TRIAGE CATEGORIES
IMMEDIATE
This category includes those casualties who require an immediate LSI and/or surgery. Put simply, if medical attention is not provided they will die.
The key to successful triage is to locate these individuals as quickly as possible. Casualties do not remain in this category for an extended
period of time. They are either found, triaged and treated, or they die! Hemodynamically unstable casualties with airway obstruction, chest or
abdominal injuries, massive external bleeding, or shock deserve this classification.
DELAYED
This category includes those wounded who are likely to need surgery, but whose general condition permits delay in surgical treatment without
unduly endangering the life, limb, or eyesight of the casualty. Sustaining treatment will be required (e.g., oral or IV fluids, splinting,
administration of antibiotics and pain control), but can possibly wait. Examples of casualties in this category include those with no evidence of
shock who have; large soft tissue wounds, fractures of major bones, intra-abdominal and/or thoracic wounds, and burns to less than 20% of total
body surface area (TBSA).
MINIMAL
Casualties in this category are often referred as the walking wounded. Although these patients may appear to be in bad shape at first, it is their
physiologic state that tells the true story. These casualties have minor injuries (e.g., small burns, lacerations, abrasions, or small fractures) that
can usually be treated with self- or buddy-aid. These casualties should be utilized for mission requirements (e.g., scene security), to help treat
and/or transport the more seriously wounded, or put back into the fight.
EXPECTANT
Casualties in this category have wounds that are so extensive, that even if they were the sole casualty and had the benefit of optimal
medical resources, their survival would be highly unlikely. Even so, expectant casualties should not be neglected. They should receive
comfort measures and pain medication if possible, and they deserve re-triage as appropriate. Examples of expectant casualties are the
unresponsive with injuries such as penetrating head trauma with obvious massive damage to the brain.
EVACUATION PRECEDENCE
34
TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
(TCCC / TC3)
MEDEVAC REQUEST
35
TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
(TCCC / TC3)
MIST REPORT
M MECHANISM OF INJURY AND TIME OF INJURY (IF Mechanism of Injury and time of injury (if known)
KNOWN)
36
TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
(TCCC / TC3)
E-mail To:
[email protected].
The DoDTR is the data repository for DoD trauma-related injuries. The goal of this registry is to document, in
electronic format, information about the demographics, injury-producing incident, diagnosis and treatment, and
outcome of injuries sustained by US/Non-US military and US/ Non-US civilian personnel in wartime and peacetime
from the point of wounding to final disposition. The JTS collects data from TCCC cards (DD Form 1380, TCCC AARs
and from the Armed Forces Medical Examiner Services (AFMES). Documentation is vital to accumulate data in the
DoD Trauma registry, formerly the Joint Theater Trauma Registry (JTTR). The JTS functions as:
1. JTS Operations consisting of; Data Acquisition mines Medical records to abstract, code, and enter critical
trauma data into the DoDTR database. Data Analysis develops, queries, and provides data from the DoDTR in
response to requests for information and conducts classified and non-classified data analysis. Data Automation
supports the information technology for the DoDTR and data-related special projects.
2. Trauma Care Delivery maintains a database of operational and physiologic parameters related to
delivery of en route care and has evaluated the validity of the "Golden Hour" standard for movement of casualties
from point of injury to the first surgical capability. The addition of a military en route care registry (MERCuRY) will
capture all ground, air and ship transport care.
3. Performance Improvement (PI) coordinates improvement activities across the spectrum of trauma care
developing PI course content and training for combatant command trauma system development.
37
TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
(TCCC / TC3)
38
TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
(TCCC / TC3)
39
TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
(TCCC / TC3)
In accordance with
COTCCC RECOMMENDED DEVICES & ADJUNCTS
CoTCCC Guidelines
As Of: 31 JAN 2017
TOURNIQUETS
Common Name / Brand Name DLA Nomenclature NSN
Combat Application Tourniquet (CAT) Tourniquet, Nonpneumatic 6515-01-521-7976
SOF-Tactical Tourniquet (SOFTT) Tourniquet, Nonpneumatic One-Hand w Handles 6515-01-530-7015
Emergency Medical Tourniquet (EMT) Tourniquet, Pneumatic Single-hand application 6515-01-580-1645
HEMOSTATIC DRESSINGS/DEVICES
Common Name / Brand Name DLA Nomenclature NSN
Combat Gauze (CG) Z-Fold Bandage, Gauze Kaolin Impregnated 3X4" 6510-01-562-3325
Celox Gauze, Z-fold 5' Dressing, Hemostatic Celox Gauze 3"X5' folded 6510-01623-9910
ChitoGauze Dressing, Hemostatic 3X144" coated with Chitosan 6510-01-591-7740
X-Stat, Single Applicator Applicator, Hemostatic Sponges and Dispenser 6510-01-644-7335
DLA Nomenclature is the naming convention terminology used in DoD supply systems and
often differ from common, brand, or product names.
NSN National Stock Number. A NSN is 13-digit code identifying all standardized material
supply items recognized by NATO countries and the DoD.
40
TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
(TCCC / TC3)
TCCC
PHARMACOLOGY REFERENCE
ACETAMINOPHEN (TYLENOL)
Class: CNS agent non-narcotic, analgesic, antipyretic
TCCC Indications: For mild to moderate pain management for a casualty that is still able to fight as a component of the Combat
Wound Medication Pack (CWMP)
DOSE: 325650 mg PO q46h (max: 4 g/d)
Onset / Peak / Duration: Onset Varies / Peak 1-3 hours / Duration 3-4 hours
Administration Instructions: PO
Contraindications: Acetaminophen hypersensitivity; use with alcohol; pregnancy category B
Adverse/Side Effects: Negligible with recommended dose; rash; acute poisoning: anorexia, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, lethargy,
diaphoresis, chills, epigastric or abdominal pain, diarrhea; hepatotoxicity: elevation of liver function tests; hypoglycemia, hepatic
coma, acute renal failure; chronic ingestion: neutropenia, pancytopenia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenic purpura, renal damage
Interactions: Cholestyramine may decrease absorption; barbiturates, carbamazepine, phenytoin, rifampin, and excessive alcohol
use may increase potential for hepatotoxicity
Mission Impact: None to minimal mission impact
K-9 Dosage: DO NOT GIVE
ERTAPENEM (INVANZ)
Class: Antimicrobial antibiotic, carbapenem, beta-lactam
TCCC Indications: Recommended for all open combat wounds if unable to take PO meds
DOSE: 1 gram IV/IM q24h
Administration Instructions: For IV reconstitute with 10mL NS; for IM 3.2mL 1.0% lidocaine without epinephrine
Contraindications: Carbapenem, beta-lactam, or amide-type local anesthetic (ie. Lidocaine) hypersensitivity; pregnancy cat B
Adverse/Side Effects: Injection site phlebitis or thrombosis; asthenia, fatigue, death, fever, leg pain, anxiety, altered mental status,
dizziness, headache, insomnia; chest pain, hypo- or hypertension, tachycardia, edema; abdominal pain, diarrhea, acid reflux,
constipation, dyspepsia, nausea, vomiting, increased LFTs; cough, dyspnea, pharyngitis, rales, rhonchi, respiratory distress;
erythema, pruritus, rash
Interactions: Probenecid decreases renal excretion
Mission Impact: GROUNDING medication for personnel on flight status
41
TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
(TCCC / TC3)
TCCC
PHARMACOLOGY REFERENCE
KETAMINE (KETALAR)
Class: Nonbarbiturate anesthetic, Dissociative
TCCC Indications: For moderate to severe pain management for a casualty that IS in hemorrhagic shock or respiratory distress or
is at significant risk of developing either condition. Also a useful adjunct to reduce the amount of opioids required to manage pain.
DOSE: 50 mg IM or IN, Repeat doeses q30min prn IM or IN (max: 4 g/d)
OR
20 mg slow IV or IO, Repeat doses q20min prn IV or IO (max: 4g/d)
Onset / Duration: IM Onset in 3-4 minutes / Duration 12-25 minutes IV Onset in 30 seconds / Duration 5-10 minutes
Administration Instructions: Document AVPU prior to administration. IV Ketamine should be administered slowly over 1 minute.
End points: Control of pain or development of nystagmus (rhythmic bac-and-forth movement of eyes). Be prepared to suction as
Ketamine can increase secretions. Be prepared to provide ventilatory support with a BVM.
Contraindications: Head injury (may worsen severe TBI), Hypersensitivity to ketamine, Pregnancy Category B
Adverse/Side Effects: Hypertension, Respiratory Depression, Emergence Reactions (delirium, hallucinations, confusion),
Increased Intra-cranial pressure, Increased intra-ocular pressure
Interactions: Effects of ketamine are increased when combined with other analgesics or muscle relaxants
Mission Impact: Casualty weapons, communications and sensitive equipment should be secured. GROUNDING medication for
personnel on flight status.
K-9 Dosage: 100-150mg (3-5mg/kg) IV/IM (best given in conjunction with diazepam 7.5mg or medazolam 7.5mg for profound
sedation)
42
TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
(TCCC / TC3)
TCCC
PHARMACOLOGY REFERENCE
MELOXICAM (MOBIC)
Class: NSAID; COX2 Inhibitor, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antipyretic
TCCC Indications: For mild to moderate pain management for a casualty that is still able to fight as a component of the Combat
Wound Medication Pack (CWMP)
DOSE: 7.515 mg PO daily
Administration Instructions: PO
Contraindications: NSAID or salicylate hypersensitivity; rhinitis, urticaria, angioedema, asthma; severe renal or hepatic disease;
pregnancy category C (1st/2nd trimester) and category D (3rd trimester)
Adverse/Side Effects: Edema, flu-like syndrome, pain; abdominal pain, diarrhea, dyspepsia, flatulence, nausea, constipation,
ulceration, GI bleed; anemia; arthralgia; dizziness, headache, insomnia; pharyngitis, upper respiratory tract infection, cough; rash,
pruritus; urinary frequency, UTI
Interactions: May decrease effect of ACE inhibitors and diuretics; may increase lithium levels and toxicity; aspirin may increase GI
bleed risk; warfarin and herbals (feverfew, garlic, ginger, ginkgo) may increase bleeding.
Mission Impact: None to minimal mission impact
K-9 Dosage: DO NOT GIVE
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TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
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TCCC
PHARMACOLOGY REFERENCE
MOXIFLOXACIN (AVELOX)
Class: Antimicrobial antibiotic; fluoroquinolone
TCCC Indications: Recommended for all open combat wounds if unable to take PO meds as a component of the Combat Wound
Medication Pack (CWMP)
DOSE: 400 mg PO qd
Onset / Peak / Duration: Onset Varies / Peak 1-3 hours / Duration 3-4 hours
Administration Instructions: PO
Contraindications: Quinolone hypersensitivity; hepatic insufficiency; syphilis; arrhythmias; myocardial ischemia or infarction; QTc
prolongation, hypokalemia, or those receiving Class IA or Class III antiarrhythmic drugs; pregnancy category C.
Adverse/Side Effects: Dizziness, headache, peripheral neuropathy, nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting, taste perversion,
abnormal LFTs, dyspepsia, tendon rupture.
Interactions: Iron, zinc, antacids, aluminum, magnesium, calcium, sucralfate decrease absorption; atenolol, cisapride,
erythromycin, antipsychotics, TCAs, quinidine, procainamide, amiodarone, sotalol may prolong QTC interval; may cause false
positive on opiate screening tests.
Mission Impact: GROUNDING medication for personnel on flight status.
K-9 Dosage: DO NOT GIVE
NALAXONE (NARCAN)
Class: CNS agent narcotic (opiate) antagonist
TCCC Indications: For narcotic opiate overdose and reversal of effects, including respiratory depression, sedation, and
hypotension.
DOSE: 0.42.0 mg IV, repeat q23min up to 10 mg prn
Onset / Peak / Duration: IV Onset in 1-2 minutes / Peak in 5-15 minutes / Duration 45 minutes or longer
IM Onset in 2-5 minutes / Peak in 5-15 minutes / Duration 45 minutes or longer
Administration Instructions: Have available when administering opioids. Titrate to effect to manage negative opioid effects, but
use caution that pain is still managed.
Contraindications: Non-opioid drug respiratory depression; pregnancy category B
Adverse/Side Effects: Analgesia reversal, tremors, hyperventilation, drowsiness, sweating; increased BP, tachycardia; nausea,
vomiting.
Interactions: Reverses analgesic effects of narcotic (opiate) agonists and agonist-antagonists.
Mission Impact: GROUNDING medication for personnel on flight status.
K-9 Dosage: 1mg (0.02-0.04mg/kg) IV/IM
44
TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
(TCCC / TC3)
TCCC
PHARMACOLOGY REFERENCE
45
TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
(TCCC / TC3)
46
TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
(TCCC / TC3)
ABOUT THE
COMMITTEE ON TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
AND THE JOINT TRAUMA SYSTEM
CoTCCC MISSION:
To develop on an ongoing basis the best possible
set of trauma care guidelines customized for the
tactical environment and to facilitate the transition
of these recommendations into battlefield trauma
care practice.
The Committee on Tactical Combat Casualty Care (CoTCCC) is the Prehospital arm of the Joint Trauma System for the
Department of Defense.
The CoTCCC is composed of 42 voting members specially selected as subject-matter experts in trauma, battlefield medicine,
tactical medicine, prehospital medicine and their experience in the deployed combat environment.
The TCCC Working Group is composed of the CoTCCC and hundreds of subject-matter experts across many domains and
liaisons from DoD, Government and Partner nation organizations.
The CoTCCC and the TCCC Working Group focus all of their efforts on providing the best recommendations for training and
equipment for our individual service members, combat medics, corpsman, pararescue, and med techs going into harm's way
around the world.
JTS MISSION:
The mission of the Joint Trauma System (JTS) is to provide evidence-
based process improvement of trauma and combat casualty care, to
drive morbidity and mortality to the lowest possible levels, and to
provide evidence-based recommendations on trauma care and
trauma systems across the Department of Defense (DoD).
DATA ACQUISITION: Mines the medical records to abstract, code, and enters critical trauma data into the DoDTR database for use in
support of the JTS mission.
DATA ANALYSIS: Develops queries and provides data from the DoDTR in response to requests for information. Conducts classified and
non-classified data analysis.
DATA AUTOMATION: Supports the information technology for the DoDTR and data-related special projects. Designs and implements
special-project database applications, related architecture, and documentation. Handles documentation needs for JTS to maintain Program
compliance with the Defense Health Agency.
PERFORMANCE IMPROVEMENT: Coordinates performance improvement (PI) activities across the spectrum of trauma care. Participates
in the development, maintenance, and adherence to Clinical Practice Guidelines. Develops PI course content and training, and resolves
trauma system patient care issues.
EDUCATION: Develops and conducts pre-deployment training of the Joint Theater Trauma System (JTTS) teams, DoDTR user training, and
JTS staff training. Develops educational products for combatant command trauma system development. Secures continuing education
credits and coordinates performance improvement and other trauma related courses.
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TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
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SAVING LIVES ON THE BATTLEFIELD: A JOINT TRAUMA SYSTEM REVIEW OF PRE-HOSPITAL TRAUMA CARE IN
COMBINED JOINT OPERATING AREAAFGHANISTAN (CJOA-A) EXECUTIVE SUMMARY.
KOTWAL RS, BUTLER FK, EDGAR EP, SHACKELFORD SA, BENNETT DR, BAILEY JA. J SPEC OPER MED . 2013;13(1):77 85.
SAVING LIVES ON THE BATTLEFIELD (PART II) - ONE YEAR LATER: A JOINT THEATER TRAUMA SYSTEM
AND JOINT TRAUMA SYSTEM REVIEW OF PREHOSPITAL TRAUMA CARE IN COMBINED JOINT OPERATIONS
AREA-AFGHANISTAN (CJOA-A).
SAUER SW, ROBINSON JB, SMITH MP, GROSS KR, KOTWAL RS, MABRY RL, BUTLER FK, STOCKINGER ZT, BAILEY JA, MAVITY ME, GILLIES
DA 2ND J SPEC OPER MED. 2015 SUMMER;15(2):25-41
TRAGEDY INTO DRAMA: AN AMERICAN HISTORY OF TOURNIQUET USE IN THE CURRENT WAR.
KRAGH JF JR, WALTERS TJ, WESTMORELAND T, MILLER RM, MABRY RL, KOTWAL RS, RITTER BA, HODGE DC, GREYDANUS DJ, CAIN JS,
PARSONS DS, EDGAR EP, HARCKE T, BAER DG, DUBICK MA, BLACKBOURNE LH,MONTGOMERY HR, HOLCOMB JB, BUTLER FK. J SPEC
OPER MED. 2013 FALL;13(3):5-25.
DEATH ON THE BATTLEFIELD (2001-2011): IMPLICATIONS FOR THE FUTURE OF COMBAT CASUALTY CARE.
EASTRIDGE BA, MABRY RL, SEGUIN P, CANTRELL J, TOPS T, URIBE P, MALLET O, ZUBKO T, OETJEN-GERDES L, RASMUSSEN TE, BUTLER
FK, KOTWAL R, HOLCOMB JB, WADE C, CHAMPION H, LAWNICK M, MOORES L, BLACKBOURNE LH. J TRAUMA ACUTE CARE SURG. 2012
VOLUME 73, NUMBER 6, SUPPLEMENT 5.
IMPLEMENTING AND PRESERVING THE ADVANCES IN COMBAT CASUALTY CARE FROM IRAQ AND
AFGHANISTAN THROUGHOUT THE US MILITARY.
BUTLER FK JR, SMITH DJ, CARMONA RH. J TRAUMA ACUTE CARE SURG. 2015 VOLUME 79, NUMBER 2.
BATTLEFIELD TRAUMA CARE THEN AND NOW: A DECADE OF TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE.
BUTLER FK, BLACKBOURNE LH. J TRAUMA ACUTE CARE SURG. 2012 VOLUME 73, NUMBER 6
48
TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
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TCCC GUIDELINES COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW AND UPDATE: TCCC GUIDELINES CHANGE 16-03.
MONTGOMERY HR, BUTLER FK, KERR W, CONKLIN CC, MORISSETTE DJ, REMLEY MA, SHAW TA, RICH TA. J SPEC OPER MED. 2017 SUMMER;17(2):19-36.
THE USE OF PELVIC BINDERS IN TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE: TCCC GUIDELINES CHANGE 16-02.
SHACKELFORD SA, HAMMESFAHR R, MORISSETTE D, MONTGOMERY HR, KERR W, BROUSSARD M, BENNETT BL, DORLAC WC, BREE S, BUTLER FK. J SPEC
OPER MED. 2017 SPRING;17(1):135-147.
MANAGEMENT OF EXTERNAL HEMORRHAGE IN TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE: THE ADJUNCTIVE USE OF XSTAT
COMPRESSED HEMOSTATIC SPONGES: TCCC GUIDELINES CHANGE 15-03.
SIMS K, MONTGOMERY HR, BOWLING F, DITURO P, KHEIRABADI BS, BUTLER FK JR, J SPEC OPER MED. 2016 SPRING;16(1):19-28.
REPLACEMENT OF PROMETHAZINE WITH ONDANSETRON FOR TREATMENT OF OPIOID- AND TRAUMA-RELATED NAUSEA AND
VOMITING IN TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE: TCCC GUIDELINES CHANGE 14-03.
ONIFER DJ, BUTLER FK JR, GROSS KR, OTTEN EJ, PATTON R, RUSSELL RJ, STOCKINGER Z. J SPEC OPER MED. 2015 SUMMER;15(2):9-16.
OPTIMIZING THE USE OF LIMB TOURNIQUETS IN TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE: TCCC GUIDELINES CHANGE 14-02.
SHACKELFORD SA, BUTLER FK JR, KRAGH JF JR, STEVENS RA, SEERY JM, PARSONS DL, MONTGOMERY HR, KOTWAL RS, MABRY RL, BAILEY JA. J SPEC
OPER MED. 2015 SPRING;15(1):17-31.
FLUID RESUSCITATION FOR HEMORRHAGIC SHOCK IN TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE: TCCC GUIDELINES CHANGE 14-01
BUTLER FK, HOLCOMB JB, SCHREIBER MA, KOTWAL RS, JENKINS DA, CHAMPION HR, BOWLING F, CAP AP, DUBOSE JJ, DORLAC WC, DORLAC GR, MCSWAIN
NE, TIMBY JW, BLACKBOURNE LH, STOCKINGER ZT, STRANDENES G, WEISKOPF RB, GROSS KR, BAILEY JA. 2 JUNE 2014. J SPEC OPER MED. 2014
FALL;14(3):13-38. REVIEW.
MANAGEMENT OF EXTERNAL HEMORRHAGE IN TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE: CHITOSAN-BASED HEMOSTATIC GAUZE
DRESSINGS: TCCC GUIDELINES CHANGE 13-05
BENNETT DR, LITTLEJOHN L, KHEIRABADI BS, BUTLER FK, KOTWAL RS, DUBICK MA, BAILEY JA. J SPEC OPER MED. 2014 FALL;14(3):12-29.
A TRIPLE-OPTION ANALGESIA PLAN FOR TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE: TCCC GUIDELINES CHANGE 13-04
BUTLER FK, KOTWAL RS, BUCKENMAIER CC 3RD, EDGAR EP, OCONNOR KC, MONTGOMERY HR, SHACKELFORD SA, GANDY JV 3RD, WEDMORE IS, TIMBY
JW, GROSS KR,BAILEY JA. . J SPEC OPER MED. 2014 SPRING;14(1):13-25.
MANAGEMENT OF JUNCTIONAL HEMORRHAGE IN TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE: TCCC GUIDELINES CHANGE 13-03.
KOTWAL RS, BUTLER FK, GROSS KR, KRAGH JF, KHEIRABADI BS, BAER DG, DUBICK MA, RASMUSSEN TE, WEBER MA, BAILEY JA. J SPEC OPER MED. 2013
WINTER;13(4):85-93.
MANAGEMENT OF OPEN PNEUMOTHORAX IN TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE: TCCC GUIDELINES CHANGE 13-02.
BUTLER FK, DUBOSE JJ, OTTEN EJ, BENNETT DR, GERHARDT RT, KHEIRABADI BS, GROSS KR, CAP AP, LITTLEJOHN LF, EDGAR EP, SHACKELFORD SA,
BLACKBOURNE LH, KOTWAL RS, HOLCOMB JB, BAILEY JA. J SPEC OPER MED. 2013 FALL;13(3):81-6.
THE TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE CASUALTY CARD TCCC GUIDELINES PROPOSED CHANGE 1301.
KOTWAL RS, BUTLER FK, MONTGOMERY HR, BRUNSTETTER TJ, DIAZ GY, KIRKPATRICK JW, SUMMERS NL, SHACKELFORD SA, HOLCOMB JB, BAILEY JA. J
SPEC OPER MED. 2013 SUMMER;13(2):82-7.
DHB RECOMMENDATION REGARDING THE ADDITION OF TRANEXAMIC AICD TO THE TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
GUIDELINES.
DEFENSE HEALTH BOARD MEMO, 2011-06, 23 SEP 2011.
DHB RECOMMENDATION PERTAINING TO TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE GUIDELINES ON THE PREVENTION OF
HYPOTHERMIA.
DEFENSE HEALTH BOARD MEMO, 2010-06, 10 DEC 2010.
49
TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
(TCCC / TC3)
GLOSSARY
AAL a nterior a xillary l ine JTS Joi nt Tra uma Sys tem
ASAP a s s oon as possible JTTS joi nt theater tra uma s ystem
AVPU Al ert/Verbal/Pain/Unresponsive LR La cta ted Ringer's
AXP a mbulance exchange point LSI l i fe-savi ng intervention
BAS ba ttalion aid s tation MASSCAL ma s s casualty
BVM ba g-valve-mask MEDEVAC medi cal evacuation
CASEVAC ca s ualty evacuation mmHG mi l limeters of mercury
CAT Comba t Application Tourniquet MSO4 Morphi ne Sulfate
CCP ca s ualty collection point MTF medi cal treatment facility
CEP ca s ualty evacuation point NS norma l saline / s odium chloride
CG Comba t Gauze
ODT ora l ly disolving tablet
Cl a ss VIII cl a ss of s upply for medical
OTFC ora l trnsmucosal fentanyl ci trate
CLS comba t lifesaver
PCO2 pa rti al pressure of carbon dioxide
COMSEC communications security
PI performance i mprovement
CoTCCC Commi ttee on Tactical Combat Casualty Ca re
PO by mouth / ora l
CPG cl i nical practice guidelines
POI poi nt-of-injury
CRoC Comba t Ready Cl amp
PRN pro re na ta (as needed/circumstances require)
CRS ca s ualty response system
RBC red bl ood cells
CTS Comba t Tra uma Sys tem
SAM-JT SAM-Juncti onal Tourniquet
CUF Ca re Under Fire (phase)
SBP s ys tolic blood pressure
CWMP comba t wound medication pack
SGA s upraglottic airway
DoDTR department of defense trauma registry
SOF s pecial operations forces
EMT Emergency Medical Tourniquet
HLZ hel copter landing zone SOFT-T Special Operations Forces Ta ctical Tourniquet
50
TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
(TCCC / TC3)
CONVERSIONS
10GTT- 8 13 13 17 21 25 29 33 42
15GTT- 12 19 20 25 31 37 44 50 62
51
TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE
(TCCC / TC3)
TCCC
DRUG QUICK REFERENCE
KETAMINE (Ketalar): 50mg IM/IN q1h OR 20mg IV/IO q30m until nystagmus or max dose of
100mg
ONDANSETRON (Zofran): 4 mg slow IV push or IM q8h prn OR 4mg ODT PO q8h prn
ISBN: 978-0-692-90697-2