What is the purpose of the Care Under Fire phase?

The purpose of the Care Under Fire phase is to provide immediate life-saving interventions under fire. This phase focuses on delivering critical medical care while still in a combat situation where the risk from enemy fire is present. It emphasizes the importance of addressing life-threatening injuries quickly to stabilize the patient, allowing for further care once the situation becomes safer.

This phase is crucial because it prioritizes maintaining the safety of both the medic and the casualty while managing severe injuries that could lead to death if not addressed immediately. The actions taken during this phase often include applying tourniquets, managing airway obstructions, and controlling severe bleeding—all essential steps that must be performed swiftly in the midst of danger. Understanding the dynamics of Care Under Fire is vital for combat medics, as it shapes the essential response framework when lives are on the line in active scenarios.