Team-centered resilience in healthcare teams within LSCO environments: Building collective strength for modern combat...

Future large-scale combat operations (LSCO) will face limited evacuation capabilities, necessitating prolonged field care and placing immense psychological and operational demands on deployed healthcare teams. To address these challenges, a shift from individual to team-centered resilience is essential. Team-centered resilience leverages the collective strength of teams, serving as a critical strategy to mitigate morale and mental health impacts stemming from adverse patient outcomes common in LSCO environments. This approach is built on three main components: targeted preparation, strategic communication, and fostering a culture of team-centered support. Targeted preparation integrates end-of-life care training into Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC), effective communication techniques, team and resource management, and lessons from past conflicts. Strategic communication and debriefing practices enhance team dynamics, adaptability, and functionality in high-stress situations. Training in self-regulation and self-management further supports team cohesion and resilience. An initial model for team resilience is introduced, underpinned by four foundational pillars and emphasizing the development of critical knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs). It calls for cultivating a culture of resilience to sustain performance and well-being in high-stakes environments. Implementing these strategies can enhance adaptability, resourcefulness, and mission success for both military and civilian healthcare teams.