What protocol should medics use to prioritize treatment on the battlefield?

The MARCH protocol is a systematic approach used by medics to prioritize treatment on the battlefield, focusing on the most critical life-threatening injuries first. The acronym represents:

• M for Massive hemorrhage: This emphasizes the urgency of controlling life-threatening bleeding as the first step in trauma care.

• A for Airway: Ensuring that the patient's airway is open and clear to facilitate breathing and oxygenation is the next priority.

• R for Respiration: Assessment and management of respiratory distress, which could include treating a tension pneumothorax or distributing supplemental oxygen.

• C for Circulation: Assessing circulation status and managing shock through fluid resuscitation if indicated.

• H for Head injury/hypothermia: Finally, addressing head injuries and preventing hypothermia, which can complicate other treatments.

Using the MARCH protocol allows medics to adopt a clear and effective strategy for trauma care in a chaotic battlefield environment, ensuring that they address life-threatening conditions in the proper order and significantly improve the likelihood of patient survival.