The STEP Method: A Structured Approach to Optimize Team Performance of Army Forward Resuscitative Surgical...

Area of Science:

• Military Medicine
• Trauma Surgery
• Team Performance Optimization

Background:

• U.S. Army Forward Resuscitative Surgical Detachments (FRSD) operate near combat zones, providing critical damage control resuscitation and surgery.
• Improving team performance and operational readiness is crucial for FRSD units preparing for deployment.
• Far-forward trauma resuscitation presents unique challenges requiring specialized protocols.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a systematic, evidence-informed standard operating procedure (SOP) for FRSD units.
• To enhance team performance and operational readiness for combat deployment.
• To address the specific challenges of far-forward trauma resuscitation.

Main Methods:

• A theoretical framework for team performance optimization was created using literature and expert input.
• The SOP was iteratively refined through simulation training and real-world trauma resuscitations.
• Performance feedback and after-action reviews informed the optimization of the STEP system.

Main Results:

• The STEP method is a framework optimizing Army FRSD team performance.
• It is based on four elements: Skill, Team organization, Equipment, and Process.
• Key aspects include proficiency, clear roles, communication standards, equipment readiness, and a structured "game plan".

Conclusions:

• The STEP method provides a standardized, replicable SOP for Army FRSD trauma resuscitation.
• This framework has broad applicability across Army medical units.
• It offers a versatile approach to optimizing team performance in high-stress environments.