Be your own first responder, a THREE-TIERED evolution
Be Your Own First Responder
A three-tiered evolution, each being the prerequisite to the next.
Each increasing in stress and demand on the student.
Tier I - instruction, show and tell. sMARCH-E algorithm and components of an IFAK. Defining 'the X', the difference between a direct and indirect threat, and the priority of safety (self, partner, bystander(s), patient(s).) An overview of Good Samaritan protections.
Tier II - partner drilling with intervention applications from a training IFAK. The goal of this tier is for the student to build competence and confidence in the rendering of trauma aid while experiencing sensory deprivation and stress. The student will experience rendering aid to both self and others while enduring simulated injuries. All participants receive a training IFAK to use throughout Tier II and Tier III. Students should expect exposure to fake blood products, and wear clothes that may get stained and/ or cut off. All students will apply and have applied chest seals, so undergarments should be selected accordingly for females.
- Think like a responder
- How to perform a 'trauma sweep'
- Recognize and treat arterial bleeding
- Stage and apply tourniquets
- Apply direct pressure to a wound
- Wound pack using gauze
- Apply a pressure bandage
- Apply chest seals
- Manage casualty body temperature
- Treat head and eye injuries
- Recognize physical reactions and function under stress
- Activate EMS
- All of the above with one hand, limited visibility, and/or limited mobility
- All of the above with disorientation, noise, props, and sound effects
Tier III is live scenario exercise with moulage, role play, and simulated danger and chaos, serving as a Capstone exercise to the skills and knowledge garnered in Tier I and Tier II. This is a culmination event, where the students will trouble shoot the entirety of the scenario without instructor or role-player/participant guidance. Simulated weapons, injuries, sounds, and other effects will be made as realistic as possible. Clothing and location need to be able to withstand fake blood and potentially being stained, cut, or otherwise destroyed. We use TrueClot® Blood Simulant.
All participants will be security wanded and patted down for staff and participant safety before scenario initiation, and at least one non-exercise-participant Safety Officer will be in place and clearly identifiable. Low-light and or night scenarios can be considered. Upon End-Ex (the end of the exercise), a debrief and Q & A will commence.
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Tier I and Tier II teach a student the skills and tools, Tier III teaches one about their own ability to handle stress, fear, and chaos. There is no 'failure', yet that which does not challenge you will not change you.
Be your own first responder.
Coach Ahanu is a Recognized Educational Partner (REP) of the Commitee on Tactical Emergency Casualty Care for Active Bystanders.
C-TECC Guidelines for Active Bystanders
Coach Ahanu is also a Level III Essential Responder graduate under Refuge Medical Training, and a former EMT-B, remaining current with NREMT CME and recertification hours, while not affiliated, active, or attached to an EMS agency.
