Previous: 1-140: Combat Lifesaver
1-142. Platoon combat medics are assigned to the medical platoon and are tasked to support the Infantry battalion. Combat medics are allocated to the Infantry companies on the basis of one combat medic per platoon, and one senior combat medic per company. The location of the combat medic is of extreme importance for rapid medical treatment of casualties.
1-143. The company senior combat medic collocates with the company trains. When a casualty occurs, the CLS renders first aid, or first aid is provided through self-aid or buddy aid. The platoon combat medic or the company senior combat medic goes to the casualty’s location, or the casualty is brought to the combat medic at the CCP. The CCP combat medic makes his assessment, administers initial medical care, initiates a DD Form 1380 (see figure 1-11) then requests evacuation or returns the individual to duty. (Refer to AR 40-66 for details and instructions on completing the form.)
1-144. The Infantry platoon combat medic usually locates with, or near, the platoon sergeant. When the platoon moves on foot in the platoon column formation, the combat medic positions himself near the platoon sergeant. If the platoon is mounted, the combat medic usually rides in the same vehicle as the platoon sergeant. + EMT procedures performed by the combat medic may include opening an airway, starting IV fluids, controlling hemorrhage, preventing or treating for shock, splinting fractures or suspected fractures, and providing relief for pain.
1-145. The Infantry platoon combat medic is trained under the supervision of the
battalion surgeon or physician’s assistant and medical platoon leader. The platoon combat medic is responsible for—
- Triaging injured, wounded, or ill friendly and enemy personnel for priority of treatment.
- Conducting sick call screening.
- Assisting in the evacuation of sick, injured, or wounded personnel under the direction of the platoon sergeant.
- Assisting in the training of the platoon’s combat lifesavers in enhanced first-aid procedures.
- Requisitioning Class VIII supplies from the BAS for the platoon according to the TACSOP.
- Recommending locations for platoon casualty collection point.
- Providing guidance to the platoon’s combat lifesavers, as required.
Next: 1-146: Forward Observer
Go Back To: U.S. Army FM 3-21.8: The Infantry Rifle Platoon and Squad