Show Notes
Episode 196. Tactical First Aid and System Collapse Medicine with Greg Ellifritz
In this episode of the Forge of Freedom podcast, host Alex Ooley welcomes Greg Ellifritz, a retired police officer and founder of Active Response Training. They discuss the importance of tactical first aid and the MARCH protocol, which focuses on managing massive bleeding, airway, respiration, circulation, and head injuries. Greg shares his extensive background in law enforcement and training, emphasizing the need for practical skills in emergency situations. The conversation also covers system collapse medicine, preparedness, and the significance of having the right training and resources for various medical emergencies.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Tactical Medicine and Training Background
07:00 Understanding Tactical First Aid vs. Standard First Aid
16:13 The MARCH Protocol: A Tactical Approach to Trauma
26:48 Massive Bleeding and Tourniquet Application
33:42 Tourniquet Application and Wound Packing
38:26 Understanding Tourniquet Misconceptions
46:31 Tourniquet Placement Controversies
50:17 Airway and Respiration Essentials
58:39 Addressing Opioid Overdoses with Narcan
01:04:45 Circulation and Wound Care Protocols
01:06:00 Suturing Skills: A Fun Yet Questionable Necessity
01:08:34 Wound Cleaning: The Importance of Proper Techniques
01:12:17 Wound Closure: Risks and Best Practices
01:15:54 Hypothermia and Head Injuries: Essential First Aid
01:17:07 System Collapse Medicine: Preparing for Emergencies
01:23:30 Gear Lists: Training Over Equipment
01:26:34 Beyond Tactical Medicine: Greg’s Broader Work
Resources
Active Response Training
https://www.activeresponsetraining.net/instructors
Pat Rogers Memorial Revolver Round-Up at Gunsite
https://www.gunsite.com/classes/pat-rogers-memorial-revolver-round-up/
Blackwing Shooting Center
Forge of Freedom (Choose Adventure: Safe Travel In Dangerous Places by Greg Ellifritz)
https://www.chooseadventurebook.com/
Forge of Freedom (Tactical First Aid and System Collapse Medicine After Action Report with Whitney Ooley)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=URWAdmQ_dG4
Tourniquets mentioned
https://www.narescue.com/combat-application-tourniquet-c-a-t.html
https://tacmedsolutions.com/products/sof-tourniquet?variant=40626596544711
Takeaways
- Greg Ellifritz has over 25 years of experience in law enforcement and training.
- Tactical first aid is crucial for everyday situations, not just combat scenarios.
- The MARCH protocol prioritizes massive bleeding, airway, respiration, circulation, and head injuries.
- Training is more important than gear; understanding what to do is key.
- Wilderness medicine is essential for those traveling in remote areas.
- Airway management is critical in trauma situations to ensure breathing.
- Tension pneumothorax can be life-threatening and requires immediate attention.
- Packing wounds and using tourniquets can save lives in emergencies.
- System collapse medicine prepares individuals for scenarios where medical help is unavailable.
- Resources for obtaining emergency medications legally are available and important for preparedness.
Keywords
tactical medicine, first aid, MARCH protocol, emergency preparedness, Greg Ellifritz, Active Response Training, system collapse medicine, wound care, airway management, CPR
Transcript
DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, medical, or financial advice. The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any organizations or individuals they may mention. The hosts and guests are not liable for any damages that may result from someone listening to this podcast.
