The TCCC Guidelines have become the standard of care for prehospital trauma within the DoD for both medical and nonmedical first responders. As such, the methodology and subsequent training programs are intended to be applied to any high-threat or all-hazard situation encountered by a Servicemember whether in combat or during normal duty activities.

Fundamentally, the principles of TCCC apply whether in ground tactical combat, aboard a sea vessel, at a deployed staging base, or even at home station facilities. The principle of first suppressing enemy fire, subduing an active shooter, extinguishing a shipboard fire, or reducing life threats prior to rendering medical treatment is applicable across the full range of military operation at home or abroad. Additionally, the principle of controlling immediate life-threatening hemorrhage remains the only recommended medical intervention until the threat is suppressed or controlled.

It is also important that the TCCC Guidelines be relevant in terminology used throughout the entire DoD. Joint lexicons ensure interoperability between the Services, unit formations, and individual Servicemembers for key terms used in support of trauma care, operational medical planning, performance improvement, and research across the spectrum of military operations.1

Additionally, the use of “Care Under Fire/Threat” was integrated into the TCCC All Service Members (TCCC-ASM) curriculum in 2019 by the ASD, Health Affairs–chartered working group based on guidance from Joint Trauma System personnel.1 This action was specifically included to ensure acceptance and compliance by all the military departments.