Saving a life or two

So IRT is going pretty well so far, the focus so far this week has been CLS (Combat Lifesaver) training---basically first aid. I've learned a few new things and even got a chance to destroy a few of my buddy's veins while trying to give him an IV...

Butts Army Airfield...CLS central

A fellow LT checking for the mid-clivicular, second intercostal space, just above the third rib to treat a sucking chest wound via needle chest decompression

A medic explaining the procedure mentioned above

Another medic showing us how to initiate a saline lock and give an IV transfusion, most of us look in shock knowing that soon we will be doing this to each other

A close-up of a completed IV

Joe wrapping a Combat Application Tourniquet (CAT) around a dummy's leg

Using a litter to transport a casualty to a secure location

My buddy starting the IV process on me....this is the hardest part. Most of us blew each other's veins by sticking the needle in too far (happened four times to me).

Ahhh...it felt good getting that restricting band off (I was starting to lose circulation)

My arms after getting stuck five times!

Even a successful IV can be messy. Inserting the catheter opens up the blood flow...gotta put that saline lock on or pinch the vein to cut the circulation!