What are the three phases of care in TCCC?

The three phases of care in TCCC are Care Under Fire, Tactical Field Care, and TACEVAC Care. This structure is essential for managing casualties in a tactical environment effectively and safely.

Care Under Fire refers to the life-saving measures administered while still under enemy fire. The focus in this phase is on the safety of both the casualty and the provider, prioritizing actions such as applying pressure to life-threatening bleeding and quickly moving the casualty to a safer location if possible.

Tactical Field Care occurs once the threat has been mitigated and the provider can perform more comprehensive assessments and interventions. During this phase, healthcare providers can address the casualty’s injuries in a more controlled manner, including managing airway, breathing, circulation, and other critical assessments or treatments.

TACEVAC Care pertains to the care provided during evacuation when the casualty is being transported to a higher level of medical care. This phase ensures continued assessment and appropriate management of the patient throughout transport, which is critical for the survival and stabilization of the casualty until they reach definitive care.

This structured approach ensures that appropriate care is delivered at each phase of the evacuation process in the operational environment, maximizing the chances of survival and minimizing complications.