What does the acronym 'MARCH' stand for in TCCC?

The acronym 'MARCH' stands for Massive Hemorrhage, Airway, Respirations, Circulation, and Head injury/Hypothermia. This framework is specifically designed for Tactical Combat Casualty Care to provide a systematic approach to managing trauma care in the pre-hospital environment, particularly in combat situations.

The first component, Massive Hemorrhage, emphasizes the need to quickly control any significant bleeding, which is critical for survival. This is followed by ensuring a clear Airway to prevent asphyxia, addressing Respiration to maintain adequate oxygenation, and evaluating Circulation to ensure that the heart is effectively supplying blood to the body. Including Head injury and Hypothermia as the final components highlights the importance of monitoring for traumatic brain injuries and preventing heat loss, both of which can significantly impact a casualty's chance of recovery.

This structured approach helps responders prioritize interventions based on the most life-threatening conditions, making it a fundamental aspect of TCCC training.