Prolonged Field Care Podcast

PFC Podcast: Patient Loss in Combat Medicine

Dec 11, 2025
The discussion delves into the often-ignored subject of patient death in combat medicine. Cultural sensitivity is highlighted as critical when handling deceased individuals. The importance of effective communication with grieving families is emphasized, alongside the emotional impact on medical personnel. They stress proper documentation and the significance of post-loss processing for team cohesion. Temporary burial practices and logistical considerations in austere settings are also explored, underscoring the need for respectful care throughout the process.
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ADVICE

Respect Local Death Customs

  • Prepare the body in a manner respectful to local cultural norms and involve the family in disposition decisions.
  • Notify local authorities as required and communicate clearly that you did everything possible.
ADVICE

Notify Higher And Document Everything

  • Report any host-nation death to higher headquarters and document treatments with a written record.
  • Use formal reporting (e.g., 600) and enter data into medical systems for legal cover and research.
ANECDOTE

First-Time Confusion On Enemy KIA

  • On our first objective we had no plan for enemy KIA and I almost suggested strapping a body on a vehicle.
  • I checked with a trusted terp who advised leaving bodies for locals to retrieve and process.
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