INTERNAL IFAK CONTENTS

An example load list:

• 1x Emergency Israeli Bandage: To apply direct pressure to wounds and to stop bleeding.
• 2x Combat Gauze: For controlling severe bleeding. Pack the gauze directly into the wound, DO NOT pack a chest or abdomen cavity.
• 2x Chest Seal: For sealing penetrating chest or abdomen wounds. Carry two for cover both entry and exit wounds.
• 2x Chest Decompression Needle: For relieving tension pneumothorax by inserting a needle into the chest cavity to release trapped air.
• 1x Nasopharyngeal Airway & Lube: To maintain an open airway. Oropharyngeal airway is a useful substitute but understand the benefits of each.
• 1x Medical Tape: To assist securing dressings.
• 2x Pair of Nitrile Gloves: To protect against bloodborne pathogens.
• 1x TCCC Casualty Card: A standardised card to document the treatment progress of a casualty in a pre-hospital setting to ensure efficient handover to a medical facility.

INTERNAL IFAK PACKING

Pack your IFAK in accordance with your SOPs, maintain a clear layout, and pack smart to reduce bulk.

EXTERNAL IFAK EQUIPMENT

• Tourniquet (CAT Gen 7 or SOF-T): You can never have too many. Place them in an easily accessible spot, preferably on the outside of the pouch.
• Shears: For cutting clothing or bandages.
• Permanent Marker: To note the time a tourniquet was applied.

Fold and stage your tourniquets correctly so they can be rapidly deployed in an emergency.

TCCC/CFA TRAINING

Ideally you should be trained on how to use all of the contents of your IFAK, but If that isn’t the case, remember that your IFAK is for your own treatment, and others will be using your IFAK on you if you are wounded.

In a war-like scenario, carrying medical equipment that you personally do not know how to use can still be beneficial to yourself when your kit is utilised by a trained Combat First Aider.

IFAK PLACEMENT

Your IFAK needs to be accessible with both hands. Consider placement on the rear belt, rear plate dangler, or on the front of your kit.

Consider your unit SOPs. Your section needs to know where your IFAK is so they can access it.