What does MARCH stand for in TCCC?

MARCH is a vital mnemonic in Tactical Combat Casualty Care that helps prioritize the treatment of combat casualties. The acronym stands for Massive Hemorrhage, Airway, Respiration, Circulation, and Hypothermia. Each component represents a critical aspect of battlefield medical care that must be addressed sequentially to manage a casualty effectively.

• Massive Hemorrhage: This is the first priority because uncontrolled bleeding can quickly lead to death. Immediate measures, such as applying tourniquets or direct pressure, are crucial for life-saving care.

• Airway: Once hemorrhage control is initiated, ensuring a patent airway is vital. In combat scenarios, trauma may lead to airway obstructions, so techniques such as head-tilt-chin-lift or jaw-thrust may be employed, and advanced airway management may be necessary.

• Respiration: Addressing breathing issues comes next. This could involve assessing for tension pneumothorax or other respiratory distress, which can occur due to chest trauma. Interventions such as decompression of a tension pneumothorax or administering supplemental oxygen may be necessary.

• Circulation: Beyond managing external bleeding, circulation also includes assessing the pulse and the patient’s overall hemod