What is the MARCH assessment?
Well, MARCH stands for:
Massive Hemorrhage
Airway
Respirations
Circulation
Hypothermia
sometimes we throw an "E" at the end for everything else
It is a mnemonic that addresses the priority of assessment and treatment of life threatening injuries.
It has been adopted from TCCC/TECC models into most trauma assessments and is similar to the XABC model in CPR/First aid programs.
While the MARCH assessment can help to narrow down your immediate priority of life options, there are still determining factors to its use: scene safety, your training, environmental factors, hot zone/warm zone/cold zone, etc.
M
UNCONTROLLED BLEEDING-
TQ and direct pressure only
MOVE AND REASSESS-
Wound pack/bandage when safe
A
OPEN(Head Tilt, Chin Lift/Jaw Thrust)-
NPA, Recovery position
R
SEAL BOTH SIDES OF CHEST-
Chest Seals, Recovery
C
MINOR BLEEDING AND ASSESS FOR SHOCK-
Treat secondary injuries if possible
H
SHELTER FROM ELEMENTS-
Continue to reassess, prepare for evac
Always continue to reassess interventions!
Want to learn more? Take a class with us!
Always, Arrive Alive!
Check out our Youtube series for MARCH assessment demonstrations and more info.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQaNTl4HNFT5pzad6ZytcHQ
This post is for informational purposes only, it is not meant to be used as medical advice or in lieu of proper training