Context: There are many commercially-available first aid kits: most are deficient. Most include a few bandages to deal with minor cuts and scraps, some aspirin, some salve, a compress, and a triangular bandage. These items hardly come close the requirements necessary in Austere Environment Medical Kit.

“First aid” and “First-aid kit” are really misnomers when applied to SAR ops. First aid is better described as “Survival Medical Treatment” or “Wilderness Medical Treatment.” “Medical Kit” is a more apt description than “first-aid kit.”

Generally, first aid involves stabilizing the patient so he can be moved to a hospital for treatment. In the wilderness, the rescuers are on their own. Typical first aid training is helpful; however, it is often inadequate for austere environments where whatever treatment is given may have to extend over a long period of time. The best supplies and equipment for emergency medical care will do little good if people are not trained to use it.

Design Brief: Students will use their knowledge of trauma kits and first aid kits to make an Austere Environment Medical Kit.

Possible Solutions: List other ways in which you might acquire an Austere Environment Medical Kit.