Medic

PSG’s Right Hand Man

References: Ranger Handbook TC 3-21.76 | Infantry Rifle Platoon and Squad ATP 3-21.8

Overview

“The Medic assists the PSG in directing the aid and litter teams and monitors the health of the platoon”

The Medic is the Medical Expert, makes sense right?

There is no radio to hold (The PSG has it) so the Medic occupies himself with delegated tasks from PSG, CCP and HLZ/AXP planning, Triage tasks and medical care in the actions on phase.

Overall, the Medic:

• Advices the PSG on Medical info
• Helps with planning CCP’s, AXP’s and HLZ’s
• Formulates triage plan
• Performs aid in the actions on phase

The Medic carries an enhanced medical bag with advanced supplies (e.g., chest seals, decompression needles, IV kits) beyond standard IFAKs.

Planning Phase

During the planning phase the Medic will be in the middle alongside the PSG. He will plot out CCP’s, HLZ’s and AXP’s and help the PSG in creating the medical plan

During this phase the Medic:

• Carries out delegated tasks
• Assists the PSG in developing Paragraph 4 (Sustainment) medical portions of the OPORD.
• Formulates medical plan (Triage, Evacuation procedures)
• Request medical supplies through PSG
• Plots and maps out CCP’s, AXP’s and HLZ’s

Movement Phase

During the movement phase the Medic will be close to the PSG

During this phase the Medic:

• Supervises the patrol for medical issues
• Tracks CCP’s
• Prepares for medical response

Execution Phase

During the execution phase the Medic will stay a bit behind the firing line and monitor the situation After actions on, the Medic mans the CCP and starts providing medical attention

During this phase the Medic:

• Mans the CCP, provides medical aid
• Conducts triage and provides advanced care (e.g., tourniquet conversion, airway management, IVs).
• Fills out TCCC cards so PSG can send a 9line
• Coordinates with the PSG

Prioritize care: Return to duty > Expectant > Immediate > Minimal. Document all treatments for continuity.

Tips

• Know how to perform first aid (It will be improvised, but still know how to do it)
• Know how to fill out a TCCC card
• Keep constant communication with PSG
• Carry 9 line ant TCCC cheat sheets

What a MEDIC SHOULDN’T DO

• Don’t expose yourself to fire, return fire first. Provide care once situation is under control.
• Delay triage — rapid assessment saves lives.
• Work alone, Use nearby personnel to help and to provide security.

CLosing

A good medic knows all first aid procedures and know how to plot CCP’s, HLZ’s and AXP’s properly. Focus on these two tasks and you will be alright.