Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) Practice Test

The potential risk of performing CPR on the battlefield primarily relates to the possibility of getting killed. In combat scenarios, the environment is often chaotic and dangerous, with active threats present. Performing CPR can create a significant risk for both the medic and the casualty because it requires proximity to the injured person and may distract from the surrounding threats. Additionally, the position of the rescuer may expose them to enemy fire or other dangers, as they may be in a vulnerable position on the ground while focusing on resuscitation efforts.

While other risks such as infection transmission, prolonged recovery, and delayed healing can be concerns in different contexts, they are not immediate threats in the high-stakes and volatile battlefield environment. The priority on the battlefield is often to ensure the safety of both the rescuer and the casualty, making awareness of the surroundings crucial when administering lifesaving techniques like CPR.