What is the first phase of care in Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC)?

The first phase of care in Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) is Care under fire. This phase occurs in the setting of an ongoing threat, where the primary focus is on the safety of both the casualty and the rescuer. During this phase, once a casualty is identified, the goal is to control massive hemorrhage and stabilize the casualty while ensuring that the medic can continue to operate in a hostile environment.

The principles of Care under fire highlight the need to minimize exposure to hostile fire, hence the emphasis on quickly applying life-saving measures, such as using a tourniquet for bleeding control if required, and maintaining situational awareness. Individuals trained in TCCC are taught to assess the risk of immediate danger before providing medical care and to prioritize their own safety to ensure effective assistance can be rendered. This initial phase is crucial as it sets the stage for further medical interventions to be performed in subsequent phases after the danger has been mitigated.