MCOLES State Licensing Practice Exam

What is the second phase of tactical combat care called?

1. Care under fire (Hot Zone)

2. Tactical Field Care (Warm Zone)

3. Tactical Evaluation Care (Cool Zone)

4. Immediate Response Care (Safe Zone)

The correct answer is: Tactical Field Care (Warm Zone)

Tactical Field Care is recognized as the second phase of tactical combat care, following the initial phase known as Care under Fire. This phase is characterized by providing medical care in a more stable environment, where the immediate threat has been reduced. During Tactical Field Care, medical providers can assess and treat injuries more effectively since the scene is less chaotic than during Care under Fire, allowing for a closer examination of the patient’s condition and administration of critical treatment. In this phase, responders focus on addressing life-threatening conditions, controlling bleeding, establishing airway patency, and performing other essential medical interventions. The change from the first phase to Tactical Field Care emphasizes the shift from immediate survival tactics in an active threat environment to providing comprehensive care in a safer, yet still tactical, setting. Understanding the structure of these phases helps responders to prioritize their actions effectively, ensuring that they can adapt to varying threat levels while providing necessary medical care.