Field Reference
Clear, field-informed definitions of the terms, standards, and equipment that public safety teams work with every day. Curated and written by a working paramedic with 27 years in emergency response.
A
ASHER
TacticalActive Shooter/Hostile Event Response. The doctrinal framework that expands traditional active shooter response to include the broader range of intentional mass casualty threats agencies actually face.
ReadAVPU
MedicalA rapid four-level mental status assessment scale used in prehospital and tactical settings. Alert, responds to Verbal stimuli, responds to Painful stimuli, Unresponsive. AVPU trades the precision of GCS for speed and reliability under stress, and is the TCCC-doctrine mental status tool documented on the DD Form 1380 prior to ketamine administration.
ReadAcidosis
MedicalA drop in blood pH below the normal range, which in trauma is caused by tissue hypoperfusion and contributes to the Lethal Triad.
ReadActive Warming
MedicalThe deliberate use of external heat sources to raise or maintain a trauma patient's core body temperature, distinct from passive insulation that only reduces heat loss.
ReadAid Bag
MedicalA provider-level medical kit carried by a tactical medic or patrol medical lead, designed to treat multiple casualties and support sustained provider-level care.
ReadAltered Mental Status
MedicalAny change from a patient's normal level of awareness, alertness, or cognitive function, frequently a sign of underlying medical or traumatic injury that requires investigation.
ReadAmputation
MedicalThe complete or partial separation of a limb or body part from the body. Traumatic amputation is the term for amputation resulting from injury rather than surgical procedure.
ReadAnterior Axillary Line (AAL)
MedicalA vertical anatomic landmark running from the anterior axillary fold downward along the chest wall. The 5th intercostal space at the anterior axillary line is the TCCC-doctrine site for needle decompression of tension pneumothorax and the standard site for finger thoracostomy and chest tube placement.
ReadB
Backface Deformation
ProtectionThe rearward bulging of body armor when struck by a projectile, transmitting blunt force to the wearer even when the round is stopped by the armor.
ReadBag-Valve-Mask (BVM)
MedicalA manual resuscitator consisting of a self-inflating bag, one-way valve, and mask used to deliver positive-pressure ventilation. TCCC 2026 specifies a 1000 mL resuscitator BVM for tactical field care ventilation when hypoxia is uncorrectable through positioning and nasopharyngeal airway placement.
ReadBiodefense
CBRNThe strategies, measures, and resources aimed at protecting people from biological threats. Biodefense encompasses pandemic preparedness for highly pathogenic pathogens (Ebola, Marburg, CCHF), bioterrorism countermeasures (anthrax, ricin, SEB), and the broader public health infrastructure for biological threat surveillance and response.
ReadBiohazard
CBRNA biological substance or organism that has the potential to pose a threat to the health of humans, animals, or the environment. Biohazards include pathogens (viruses, bacteria, fungi, parasites), biological toxins, and contaminated biological materials. The term applies to natural infectious disease, laboratory accidents, and intentional bioterrorism.
ReadBiosafety
CBRNThe measures, procedures, and precautions taken to protect humans, animals, and the environment from the hazards posed by biological agents. Biosafety covers the safe handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous microorganisms and biological materials, with the goal of minimizing accidental release or infection. Biosafety levels (BSL-1 through BSL-4) define containment requirements.
ReadBiosecurity
CBRNThe measures taken to prevent the unauthorized use of biological materials and ensure safeguards against deliberate biological threats or the accidental release of hazardous substances. Biosecurity focuses on safeguarding against deliberate misuse such as bioterrorism or illegal trafficking in pathogenic organisms, and includes access control, material monitoring, and risk management.
ReadBleeding Control
MedicalThe category of interventions used to stop life-threatening external bleeding, including direct pressure, wound packing with hemostatic agents, tourniquet application, and pressure dressings.
ReadBlood Products
MedicalComponents or whole blood used in transfusion therapy, including packed red blood cells, fresh frozen plasma, platelets, and whole blood. The preferred volume for hemorrhagic shock resuscitation.
ReadBlood Type Patch
TacticalA worn or affixed patch indicating an individual's blood type, common in military and tactical settings but clinically irrelevant for transfusion decisions in civilian EMS.
ReadBolus
MedicalA defined volume of fluid or single dose of medication administered rapidly, distinct from continuous infusion or maintenance dosing.
ReadC
CASEVAC (Casualty Evacuation)
TacticalCasualty evacuation using non-medical or opportunity platforms without dedicated medical personnel or equipment. CASEVAC distinguishes itself from MEDEVAC by the absence of designated medical capability on the evacuation platform. CASEVAC may be the only available option in austere or denied environments.
ReadCBRNE
CBRNChemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosive. The standard framework for categorizing high-consequence threats requiring specialized protective equipment, detection capability, and medical countermeasures. CBRNE response is a distinct discipline within tactical EMS, hazmat, and military operations.
ReadCWMP (Combat Wound Medication Pack)
MedicalThe TCCC standard oral analgesic and anti-inflammatory regimen for the mission-capable casualty. The TCCC 2026 CWMP consists of acetaminophen 1000 to 1300 mg every 8 hours, meloxicam 15 mg once daily, and suzetrigine 100 mg loading dose followed by 50 mg every 12 hours.
ReadCapnography
MedicalThe measurement of carbon dioxide concentration in exhaled breath, used to monitor ventilation, confirm airway placement, and assess perfusion. Includes both continuous waveform monitoring and single-use colorimetric detection products such as needle decompression indicator kits and CapnoSpot.
ReadCare Under Fire
TacticalThe first phase of Tactical Combat Casualty Care, covering medical interventions delivered while the casualty and provider are still under effective hostile fire.
ReadCasualty Collection Point
TacticalA pre-designated location, behind cover and away from active threat, where casualties are gathered for systematic medical assessment, treatment, and preparation for evacuation.
ReadChest Seal
MedicalAn adhesive dressing applied to penetrating chest wounds to limit air entry into the chest cavity and reduce the risk of pneumothorax.
ReadChest Tube (Tube Thoracostomy)
MedicalA flexible tube inserted into the pleural space through an incision at the 5th intercostal space in the anterior or mid-axillary line, connected to a one-way drainage system. Chest tubes provide definitive treatment for pneumothorax, hemothorax, and tension pneumothorax that has been initially decompressed by needle or finger thoracostomy.
ReadChitosan
MedicalA naturally occurring polysaccharide derived from the shells of crustaceans, used as the active ingredient in several field-approved hemostatic dressings.
ReadCoTCCC
RegulatoryThe Committee on Tactical Combat Casualty Care, the U.S. Department of Defense body that publishes the Tactical Combat Casualty Care guidelines and reviews trauma equipment for battlefield use.
ReadCoTCCC Recommended
RegulatoryA designation indicating that a specific trauma medical component has been reviewed by the Committee on Tactical Combat Casualty Care and meets the effectiveness, durability, and operational criteria for battlefield trauma care.
ReadCoagulopathy
MedicalImpaired blood clotting, which in trauma is a major contributor to ongoing hemorrhage and is one of the components of the Lethal Triad.
ReadCompensated Shock
MedicalThe early stage of shock in which the body's compensatory mechanisms (sympathetic activation, vasoconstriction, tachycardia) maintain blood pressure within normal range despite inadequate tissue perfusion. The patient looks deceptively stable. Blood pressure is preserved, but oxygen delivery to tissues is failing. Compensated shock is the operationally critical recognition point: missed here, decompensated shock follows minutes later.
ReadCompressible vs Non-Compressible Bleeding
MedicalA clinical distinction between bleeding that can be controlled by external pressure or tourniquet (compressible) and bleeding that cannot be reached or compressed externally (non-compressible).
ReadCricothyroidotomy
MedicalAn emergency surgical airway procedure that creates an opening through the cricothyroid membrane in the front of the neck to establish a patent airway when other methods have failed or are not feasible.
ReadCrystalloid Fluids
MedicalSterile saltwater solutions, including normal saline and lactated Ringer's, used for IV fluid administration in trauma resuscitation and general medical care.
ReadD
DD Form 1380 (TCCC Casualty Card)
MedicalThe standardized military trauma documentation card used at the point of injury to record casualty assessment, interventions performed, medications administered, and evacuation handoff information. DD 1380 travels with the casualty to definitive care and is the doctrinal documentation tool referenced throughout TCCC Guidelines.
ReadDamage Control Resuscitation
MedicalA trauma resuscitation philosophy that prioritizes rapid hemorrhage control, minimal crystalloid administration, balanced blood product replacement, and prevention of the Lethal Triad over conventional fluid-driven resuscitation.
ReadDecompensated Shock
MedicalThe stage of shock at which the body's compensatory mechanisms fail and blood pressure drops. Hypotension marks the transition from compensated to decompensated shock. By the time blood pressure falls, oxygen delivery to vital organs has been inadequate for some time. Decompensated shock has a narrow window before progressing to irreversible shock and cardiovascular collapse.
ReadDirect Threat Care
TacticalThe first phase of Tactical Emergency Casualty Care, covering medical interventions delivered while the threat is active and ongoing.
ReadDistal Pulse
MedicalA pulse felt below (distal to) a wound or intervention site, used to confirm tourniquet effectiveness, assess limb perfusion, and identify vascular injury.
ReadE
EDC
TacticalEvery-Day Carry. The set of tools, equipment, and supplies an individual carries on their person daily, often including basic medical and hemorrhage control items in tactical and prepared-citizen contexts.
ReadEnd-Tidal CO2 (EtCO2)
MedicalThe partial pressure of carbon dioxide at the end of an exhaled breath, measured by capnography. EtCO2 confirms airway placement, monitors ventilation adequacy, and guides ventilation rate in TBI management. The TCCC 2026 target for ventilated moderate or severe TBI casualties is 35 to 45 mmHg.
ReadEpiPen
MedicalA brand-name epinephrine auto-injector and the most widely recognized format for emergency anaphylaxis treatment. Adult EpiPen delivers 0.3 mg of epinephrine IM into the anterolateral thigh through a spring-loaded mechanism. EpiPen Jr delivers 0.15 mg for pediatric use. Generic and competitor auto-injectors (Auvi-Q, Adrenaclick) provide equivalent function at varying price points.
ReadEvacuation Care
TacticalThe third phase of Tactical Emergency Casualty Care, covering medical interventions delivered during transport from the incident location to definitive medical care.
ReadF
Field Force Medicine
TacticalA medical planning and equipment model built for law enforcement field force operations, where crowd control, prolonged deployment, and dispersed casualties intersect.
ReadFinger Thoracostomy
MedicalAn emergency procedure to decompress tension pneumothorax by surgical incision through the chest wall at the 5th intercostal space in the anterior axillary line, blunt-finger dissection through the parietal pleura, and digital exploration of the thoracic cavity. Used when needle decompression fails to relieve a confirmed tension pneumothorax.
ReadFluid Resuscitation
MedicalThe administration of intravenous fluids, blood products, or both to restore circulating volume and tissue perfusion in patients with shock or significant fluid loss.
ReadFreeze-Dried Plasma (FDP)
MedicalLyophilized plasma reconstituted at the point of injury for transfusion. FDP delivers the clotting factors and volume of liquid plasma without requiring cold-chain storage, making it deployable forward of role 2 medical facilities. FDP is widely used by French, German, Israeli, and US military forces, and FDA-approved products are available for civilian use.
ReadH
Hard Armor
ProtectionRigid ballistic plates, typically ceramic, polyethylene, or composite, rated to defeat rifle-level threats at NIJ Level III or Level IV.
ReadHartford Consensus
RegulatoryA series of expert recommendations published by the American College of Surgeons between 2013 and 2019 establishing the principle that bystanders should be trained and equipped to control life-threatening bleeding.
ReadHemorrhagic Shock
MedicalThe state of inadequate tissue perfusion resulting from blood loss, the most common form of shock in trauma and the leading cause of preventable trauma death.
ReadHemostatic Agent
MedicalA chemical agent, typically in gauze form, that accelerates blood clotting.
ReadHot, Warm, and Cold Zone
TacticalThe three-zone framework for tactical EMS and active threat response. Hot zone: active threat present, direct threat care only. Warm zone: indirect threat, casualties extracted under cover, indirect threat care delivered. Cold zone: no threat, standard evacuation care. The zones map operationally to TCCC and TECC care phases.
ReadHypocalcemia
MedicalA drop in blood calcium below the normal range, recognized in modern trauma doctrine as the fourth interrelated factor in the Lethal Diamond and an important contributor to bleeding mortality.
ReadHypothermia
MedicalA drop in core body temperature that, in trauma patients, occurs at temperatures most people would consider only mildly cold and contributes directly to bleeding mortality.
ReadHypoxia
MedicalAn inadequate supply of oxygen to body tissues, which can result from airway obstruction, breathing problems, circulation failure, or environmental conditions. A common pathway leading to organ damage and death in trauma.
ReadI
ICW
ProtectionA hard armor plate designed to reach its rated ballistic performance only when worn over a Level IIIA soft armor backer.
ReadIFAK
MedicalIndividual First Aid Kit. A compact personal kit carried by an operator and intended primarily for treating their own or a teammate's life-threatening injuries.
ReadIndirect Threat Care
TacticalThe second phase of Tactical Emergency Casualty Care, covering interventions delivered when the threat is suppressed or contained but not eliminated.
ReadIntercostal Space
MedicalThe anatomic space between two ribs, used as a reference point for needle decompression, chest tube placement, and other procedures involving the chest wall.
ReadInterosseous
MedicalA vascular access technique that delivers fluids and medications directly into the bone marrow when intravenous access cannot be obtained, providing a fast and reliable route during shock or cardiac arrest.
ReadiTClamp
MedicalA mechanical hemostatic device that approximates wound edges with sharp metal needles, creating a temporary seal that compresses underlying tissue against the device. CoTCCC-recommended for compressible head, neck, and junctional hemorrhage. Unlike hemostatic gauze, the iTClamp does not require sustained direct pressure after application.
ReadK
Kaolin
MedicalAn inert mineral clay used as the active ingredient in Combat Gauze, accelerating the body's natural clotting response to stop severe bleeding.
ReadKetamine
MedicalA dissociative anesthetic and analgesic widely used in tactical and emergency medicine for pain control, procedural sedation, and induction. Ketamine preserves airway reflexes and hemodynamic stability better than most alternatives, making it the operationally preferred agent for moderate to severe pain and procedural sedation in trauma casualties. TCCC 2026 lists ketamine and esketamine in the analgesia ladder for non-mission-capable casualties.
ReadL
Lethal Diamond
MedicalThe modern expansion of the Lethal Triad that adds hypocalcemia as a fourth interrelated factor driving trauma mortality.
ReadLethal Triad
MedicalThe interrelated combination of acidosis, hypothermia, and coagulopathy that drives mortality in severe trauma patients. Recently expanded to the Lethal Diamond with the addition of hypocalcemia.
ReadLevel IIIA
ProtectionThe highest NIJ-rated level of soft body armor, tested to defeat most common handgun threats up to .44 Magnum
ReadM
MARCH Algorithm
MedicalThe treatment priority sequence used in tactical medicine, prioritizing the leading preventable causes of death in a deliberate order: Massive Hemorrhage, Airway, Respiration, Circulation, Hypothermia/Head Injury.
ReadMARCH PAWS
MedicalAn extended version of the MARCH algorithm used in Prolonged Casualty Care and sustained operations, adding Pain, Antibiotics, Wounds, and Splinting and Sucking chest wound management to the core MARCH framework. MARCH PAWS structures the secondary survey and ongoing management after initial life-threats are addressed.
ReadMASCAL (Mass Casualty)
TacticalA military and tactical EMS term for an incident with casualty numbers that exceed available medical resources, requiring formal triage and resource allocation decisions. MASCAL parallels the civilian Mass Casualty Incident (MCI) framework but with distinct doctrinal elements specific to combat and tactical operations.
ReadMEDEVAC (Medical Evacuation)
TacticalCasualty evacuation on dedicated medical platforms with trained medical crew and onboard medical equipment. MEDEVAC platforms are typically marked with the Geneva Convention emblem (red cross or red crescent) and carry protected status under international humanitarian law. MEDEVAC is distinct from CASEVAC, which uses non-medical platforms of opportunity.
ReadMechanism of Injury (MOI)
MedicalThe physical forces, exposures, or events that caused a casualty's injuries. MOI is a foundational element of trauma assessment because injury patterns are predictable from the mechanism. Understanding MOI guides initial triage, anticipates occult injuries, and informs management decisions when full diagnostic capability is unavailable.
ReadMidclavicular Line / Mid-Axillary Line
MedicalVertical anatomic reference lines on the chest wall, used to identify specific locations for needle decompression, chest tube placement, and other procedures.
ReadMil-Spec (Marketing Use)
ProtectionShort for military specification, mil-spec is a marketing term widely used to imply military-grade quality. In legitimate technical use it refers to specific MIL-STD documents defining materials, performance, and testing requirements. In marketing use, mil-spec frequently appears without reference to any actual military standard, functioning as quality signaling rather than verifiable specification compliance.
ReadN
NAEMT
The National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians, which certifies training centers and publishes leading civilian tactical medical courses including TECC.
ReadNARCAN
MedicalThe brand name for naloxone, a medication that rapidly reverses opioid overdose by blocking opioid receptors and restoring breathing in patients who have stopped breathing or are severely depressed.
ReadNIJ Rating
ProtectionThe National Institute of Justice ballistic resistance rating system that classifies body armor by the threats it is tested to defeat.
ReadNasopharyngeal Airway
MedicalA flexible tube inserted through the nostril and into the pharynx to maintain airway patency in unconscious or semi-conscious patients, generally tolerated by patients with intact gag reflex.
ReadO
Occlusive Dressing
MedicalA dressing that creates an airtight, waterproof seal over a wound, used primarily for penetrating chest trauma to prevent air from entering the pleural space.
ReadOpen Pneumothorax
MedicalA pneumothorax in which air enters the pleural space through an open chest wall wound, commonly called a sucking chest wound.
ReadOropharyngeal Airway (OPA)
MedicalA curved plastic airway adjunct inserted into the mouth to maintain oropharyngeal patency by displacing the tongue away from the posterior pharyngeal wall. OPAs are used only in unconscious casualties without gag reflex; in patients with intact gag, the OPA stimulates vomiting and aspiration. Distinct from the nasopharyngeal airway (NPA), which tolerates partial consciousness.
ReadP
Pediatric TCCC (PED TCCC)
MedicalThe adaptation of TCCC principles for pediatric casualties, addressing weight-based dosing, age-specific equipment sizing, and physiologic differences that make adult-derived protocols dangerous in children. Pediatric TCCC is increasingly relevant for deployed forces operating in civilian environments, special operations, and civilian active threat response.
ReadPelvic Binder
MedicalA circumferential compression device applied around the greater trochanters to stabilize a suspected unstable pelvic fracture and reduce intrapelvic hemorrhage. TCCC 2026 specifies pelvic binder application for any severe blunt force or blast injury with pelvic pain, major lower limb amputation, shock, unconsciousness, or physical findings suggestive of pelvic fracture.
ReadPerfusion
MedicalThe flow of blood through tissues, delivering oxygen and removing waste. Hypoperfusion is the reduced flow of blood, the underlying mechanism of shock.
ReadPermissive Hypotension
MedicalA trauma resuscitation strategy of accepting lower-than-normal blood pressure in the prehospital phase to avoid disrupting natural clot formation, deliberately limiting fluid administration until bleeding is surgically controlled.
ReadPlasma (FDP, Liquid, Thawed)
MedicalThe acellular component of blood containing clotting factors, albumin, and electrolytes. Plasma is administered in trauma resuscitation to replace clotting factors and combat coagulopathy. Available in three field-relevant forms: freeze-dried plasma (FDP) reconstituted at point of injury, liquid plasma stored refrigerated, and thawed plasma from frozen fresh plasma.
ReadPlate Carrier
ProtectionA load-bearing vest designed to hold hard armor plates and organize mission-essential equipment.
ReadPneumothorax
MedicalThe presence of air in the pleural space between the lung and the chest wall, causing partial or full collapse of the lung on the affected side.
ReadPressure Dressing
MedicalAn elastic or compression bandage applied over a wound with direct pressure to control bleeding without fully occluding arterial flow.
ReadPreventable Cause of Death
MedicalA trauma death that could have been avoided with timely, correct field intervention using widely available training and equipment.
ReadProlonged Casualty Care (PCC)
MedicalThe TCCC phase of care that begins when evacuation to definitive surgical capability is delayed beyond the standard tactical care window. PCC addresses sustained casualty management when the golden hour stretches to 8, 24, or 72 hours, requiring fluid management, antibiotic stewardship, sustained analgesia, and complications that do not appear in shorter evacuation timelines.
ReadPulse Oximetry (SpO2)
MedicalA non-invasive measurement of arterial hemoglobin oxygen saturation using light absorption at red and infrared wavelengths through a peripheral pulsating vascular bed. Pulse oximetry guides oxygen administration, monitors ventilation adequacy, and provides the TCCC 2026 target of SpO2 greater than or equal to 92 percent for moderate to severe TBI casualties.
ReadR
Radial Pulse
MedicalThe pulse felt at the wrist over the radial artery, used as the primary field indicator of perfusion and shock in tactical trauma assessment.
ReadRecovery Position
MedicalA side-lying body position that helps maintain a patent airway in an unconscious but breathing patient, allowing fluids to drain from the mouth rather than obstruct the airway
ReadRescue Task Force (RTF)
TacticalAn integrated team of fire, EMS, and law enforcement personnel that delivers medical care to casualties in a warm zone before the entire scene is fully secured.
ReadRule of Nines
MedicalA rapid bedside method for estimating total body surface area (TBSA) burned by dividing the adult body into anatomic regions each representing 9 percent or multiples thereof. Used to guide burn fluid resuscitation and triage decisions. TCCC 2026 specifies Rule of Nines as the TBSA estimation method, rounded to the nearest 10 percent.
ReadRule of Ten (USAISR Burn Resuscitation)
MedicalA simplified initial burn fluid resuscitation formula developed by the US Army Institute of Surgical Research (USAISR) for prehospital and tactical use. Initial IV or IO fluid rate equals total body surface area (TBSA) percent burned times 10 mL per hour for adults weighing 40 to 80 kg, adjusted upward by 100 mL per hour for every 10 kg above 80 kg.
ReadS
Saline Lock
MedicalAn intravenous catheter that has been placed and capped, maintained patent with saline flush, and held available for medication or fluid administration without continuous IV drip.
ReadSelf-Aid
MedicalLifesaving medical care performed by a casualty on themselves before, during, or after sustaining injury. Self-aid is the foundation of TCCC doctrine - the casualty is the first responder. Capabilities expected include tourniquet self-application, wound packing, and CWMP self-administration when conscious and physically able.
ReadSelf-Aid / Buddy-Aid
TacticalThe doctrine and practice of casualties providing care to themselves (self-aid) or to nearby teammates (buddy-aid) before formal medical providers arrive on scene.
ReadShock
MedicalA life-threatening condition in which the body's tissues do not receive enough oxygenated blood to function, most commonly caused in trauma by severe blood loss.
ReadShock Index
MedicalA calculated value (heart rate divided by systolic blood pressure) that helps identify patients in compensated shock who appear stable on individual vital signs but are at significant risk of decompensation.
ReadSimple Thoracostomy
MedicalAn open chest decompression procedure that creates an opening through the chest wall into the pleural space without placement of a chest tube. The opening allows pneumothorax decompression and is held patent by either leaving the wound open with occlusive dressing or by repeated finger re-decompression through the existing tract.
ReadSniffing Position
MedicalAn airway positioning technique that aligns the oral, pharyngeal, and laryngeal axes by flexing the neck and extending the head. The sniffing position improves laryngoscopy view, optimizes mask ventilation, and is the TCCC-doctrine first intervention for reduced respirations following opioid or ketamine administration.
ReadSpalling
ProtectionThe fragmentation of projectile or armor material that can occur on the strike face of body armor at the moment of impact, producing secondary fragments that can injure the wearer or bystanders.
ReadSpecial Threat Plate
ProtectionA marketing term used by some armor manufacturers for rifle plates rated above standard NIJ threat levels, typically demonstrated via independent ballistic test reports rather than NIJ certification. Buyer skepticism is warranted: special threat capability claims vary widely in their underlying testing rigor, threat selection, and applicability to operational environments.
ReadStop the Bleed
TrainingA national public awareness and training program that teaches civilians the basics of life-threatening bleeding control, built on the doctrinal foundation of the Hartford Consensus.
ReadSupraglottic Device
MedicalAn advanced airway device that is inserted into the upper airway above the vocal cords, providing a secured airway without requiring direct visualization of the trachea, used as a faster alternative to endotracheal intubation in many tactical and emergency settings.
ReadSurgical Airway
MedicalThe general category of airway interventions that establish a patent airway through a surgical opening in the neck rather than through the mouth or nose.
ReadT
TACEVAC (Tactical Evacuation)
TacticalThe TCCC umbrella term for casualty movement from the point of injury to definitive care, encompassing both Casualty Evacuation (CASEVAC) and Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC) as defined in Joint Publication 4-02. TACEVAC is the third phase of TCCC after Care Under Fire and Tactical Field Care.
ReadTBSA
MedicalTotal Body Surface Area. The percentage of a patient's body covered by burns, used to guide fluid resuscitation, assess severity, and determine the appropriate level of care for burn patients.
ReadTCCC
TrainingTactical Combat Casualty Care. The military trauma care framework developed by the Department of Defense that defines the standard of care for battlefield wounds.
ReadTCCC Tier System (ASM, CLS, CMC, CPP)
TrainingThe four-level TCCC training hierarchy defining scope of practice and intervention authority. All Service Member (ASM) covers basic self-aid and buddy-aid. Combat Lifesaver (CLS) adds intermediate skills. Combat Medic-Corpsman (CMC) is the tactical medic tier. Combat Paramedic-Provider (CPP) is the most advanced tier, expanding into advanced procedures and prolonged care.
ReadTECC
TrainingTactical Emergency Casualty Care. The civilian adaptation of military trauma care principles for law enforcement, EMS, fire, and civilian responders.
ReadTP-C
RegulatoryTactical Paramedic-Certified. A specialty certification administered by the International Board of Specialty Certification (IBSC) that validates paramedic-level competency in tactical medicine for civilian law enforcement and tactical operations.
ReadTXA
MedicalTranexamic acid, a medication that reduces excessive bleeding by stabilizing formed clots, used in trauma resuscitation when administered within hours of injury.
ReadTactical (The Marketing Adjective)
ProtectionWhen the word tactical is applied as a marketing prefix to consumer products (tactical flashlight, tactical pen, tactical knife, tactical backpack) without operational distinction from non-tactical equivalents. The label often functions as aesthetic signaling - black color, MOLLE webbing, aggressive styling - rather than denoting genuine operational capability or training-driven design.
ReadTactical Evacuation Care
TacticalThe third phase of Tactical Combat Casualty Care, covering medical interventions delivered during transport from the point of injury to a higher level of medical care.
ReadThreat Mitigation
TacticalThe combined operational and medical actions taken to reduce or eliminate a threat to responders and casualties, recognized as the first medical intervention in tactical care doctrine.
ReadTourniquet
MedicalA device applied to an arm or leg to stop severe bleeding by compressing the limb tightly enough to occlude arterial flow.
ReadTourniquet Conversion
MedicalThe transition from limb tourniquet to hemostatic or pressure dressing once the casualty is stable enough to monitor the wound closely. TCCC 2026 specifies three conditions: the casualty is not in shock, the wound can be monitored, and the tourniquet is not controlling amputation bleeding. The 2-hour and 6-hour timepoints structure the decision.
ReadTrauma-Induced Coagulopathy (TIC)
MedicalThe complex acquired bleeding disorder that develops within minutes of severe trauma, driven by tissue injury, shock, inflammation, and consumption of clotting factors. TIC is distinct from dilutional coagulopathy caused by aggressive crystalloid resuscitation and is present on hospital arrival in a substantial fraction of severely injured patients. TIC drives much of the preventable mortality from hemorrhagic shock.
ReadTriage Categories (T1, T2, T3, T4)
TacticalThe four-level military triage classification used in mass casualty and tactical operations. T1 (Immediate) requires rapid life-saving intervention with high survival likelihood. T2 (Delayed) requires care but tolerates delay. T3 (Minimal) is ambulatory with minor injuries. T4 (Expectant) has unsurvivable injuries given available resources.
ReadW
Whole Blood
MedicalDonor blood containing all components (red cells, plasma, platelets, white cells) in their natural physiologic ratios, in contrast to component therapy which separates these for individual storage. Whole blood is the TCCC-preferred resuscitation fluid for hemorrhagic shock, particularly cold-stored low-titer O whole blood (LTOWB), which can be transfused as a universal donor product without crossmatch.
ReadWound Packing
MedicalThe technique of inserting hemostatic gauze or plain gauze directly into a wound cavity to compress the source of bleeding from inside the wound. Wound packing is the standard TCCC response for compressible hemorrhage that is not amenable to tourniquet placement, particularly junctional wounds at the groin, axilla, and neck base.
ReadMissing a term?
This reference grows from what working responders actually ask about. If you use a term on the job that is not here yet, send it our way.