- Reaction score
- 0
- Points
- 410
Given technological advances and the need for more advanced skills required by our medics in the field, is it not time for CFHS to allow some advanced procedure to be delegated down to field (QL5) med techs?
Specifically, I am referring to the skills of intubation and cricothyroidotomy. Both should be taught and tested in our QL5 school and skill refreshed prior to each deployment to Afghanistan. Given that the OPA is not effective in either a tactical environment nor ensuring a truly secure airway, that device, whilst a "tool in the toolbox" should not be taught as the medics primary airway tool.
As it stands right now, cric is the "standard" advanced airway for TCCC by operators (NPA being the basic airway) in the US and other countries. It is a relatively safe procedure that with practice can be done safely and effectively in 20-30 secs.
With new technology, such the Airtraq http://www.airtraq.com/airtraq/portal.portal.action , and skills like translaryngeal pressure, intubations in the field on difficult patients is quicker and slicker than ever.
Knowing the pros and cons of each procedure, there is no reason why troops can not be trained on mannequins and animal tissue prior to going over to the sandbox.
Specifically, I am referring to the skills of intubation and cricothyroidotomy. Both should be taught and tested in our QL5 school and skill refreshed prior to each deployment to Afghanistan. Given that the OPA is not effective in either a tactical environment nor ensuring a truly secure airway, that device, whilst a "tool in the toolbox" should not be taught as the medics primary airway tool.
As it stands right now, cric is the "standard" advanced airway for TCCC by operators (NPA being the basic airway) in the US and other countries. It is a relatively safe procedure that with practice can be done safely and effectively in 20-30 secs.
With new technology, such the Airtraq http://www.airtraq.com/airtraq/portal.portal.action , and skills like translaryngeal pressure, intubations in the field on difficult patients is quicker and slicker than ever.
Knowing the pros and cons of each procedure, there is no reason why troops can not be trained on mannequins and animal tissue prior to going over to the sandbox.