Soldiers may have to depend upon their first aid knowledge and skills to
save themselves or other soldiers. They may be able to save a life, prevent
permanent disability, and reduce long periods of hospitalization by
knowing what to do, what not to do, and when to seek medical assistance. Anything soldiers can do to keep others in good fighting condition is part
of the primary mission to fight or to support the weapons system. Most
injured or ill soldiers are able to return to their units to fight and/or
support primarily because they are given appropriate and timely first aid
followed by the best medical care possible. Therefore, all soldiers must
remember the basics:
- Check for BREATHING: Lack of oxygen intake
(through a compromised airway or inadequate breathing) can lead to brain
damage or death in very few minutes.
- Check for BLEEDING: Life cannot continue without
an adequate volume of blood to carry oxygen to tissues.
- Check for SHOCK: Unless shock is prevented or
treated, death may result even though the injury would not otherwise be
fatal.
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