What is a key reason for providing instructions to ambulatory patients during an evacuation?

Providing instructions to ambulatory patients during an evacuation is primarily aimed at minimizing confusion and maximizing safety. Clear communication is essential in high-stress environments, such as during an evacuation, where patients may be disoriented or overwhelmed by the situation. By offering specific instructions, the medic or corpsman can help guide patients on where to go, what to expect, and how to behave, which helps facilitate a smooth evacuation process. This clarity reduces the risk of accidents and ensures that both patients and medical personnel can navigate the environment safely and efficiently.

A. While compliance with treatment is important, the immediate focus during evacuation is on safety and clarity of movement rather than treatment compliance.

B. Enhancing mental preparedness is certainly beneficial, but it is more a secondary effect of clear instructions rather than the primary reason for providing them during an evacuation.

D. Preparing patients for a debriefing may be relevant at a later stage, but it is not a key reason for ensuring effective communication during the evacuation itself, which must prioritize safety and operational efficiency.