Development of a prolonged field care kit using a modified Delphi survey approach

Area of Science:

• Military Medicine
• Prehospital Care
• Medical Logistics

Background:

• Prolonged Casualty Care (PCC) extends prehospital care up to 72 hours for delayed extrication.
• Current PCC medication and supply requirements exceed weight limits for dismounted operations.
• A need exists for a standardized, weight-limited kit for effective PCC.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a standardized Prolonged Field Care Kit (PFAK) weighing under 20 lbs.
• To identify essential medications and supplies for 72 hours of PCC.
• To address the challenges of size and weight restrictions in dismounted operations.

Main Methods:

• Reviewed Joint Trauma Systems Clinical Practice Guidelines for potential PFAK contents.
• Conducted a two-step Delphi survey with PCC subgroups.
• Utilized an expert panel survey and consensus to finalize PFAK components.

Main Results:

• Identified 11 relevant guidelines, 47 potential medications, and 5 adjuncts.
• Surveyed 100 participants with response rates of 57% and 65%.
• Finalized a PFAK containing 14 medications and 4 equipment items, weighing under 20 lbs.

Conclusions:

• A Delphi survey approach effectively shortlisted optimal medications and adjuncts for PCC.
• The developed PFAK meets size and weight restrictions for military dismounted operations.
• Efficient PCC delivery is enhanced by a standardized, weight-optimized kit.