Service members in today’s military carry a large array of equipment, and survival on the battlefield depends heavily on the ability to properly use that equipment. One piece of equipment that is critically important is the Joint First Aid Kit (JFAK).

Every piece of equipment chosen for the JFAK is evidence-based (based on lessons from years of war in Iraq and Afghanistan) and serves a distinct purpose for the individual Service member; knowing how to properly use what is in the JFAK can save a life.

Remember, when treating a casualty (providing combat life saver or medic-level aid), use the items that are in the casualty’s JFAK first. Each Service member’s JFAK should be reserved for self-aid whenever possible.

Every item that is in a JFAK supports the provision of TCCC per the current guidelines. As massive hemorrhage, airway obstruction, and respiratory problems account for such a significant portion of preventable battlefield deaths, the JFAK equipment focuses on supporting treatments that address those concerns. Tourniquets, hemostatic dressing, and pressure bandages support massive hemorrhage treatment, nasopharyngeal airways address airway obstruction support, and chest seals and needles to decompress the chest address common respiratory concerns. Also, a Combat Wound Medication Pack should have been issued and added to the JFAK, and a DD Form 1380 is available for documentation purposes.