What are the three most common medically preventable causes of death on the battlefield?

The three most common medically preventable causes of death on the battlefield are extremity hemorrhage, tension pneumothorax, and airway obstruction. This selection emphasizes critical life-threatening conditions that can arise from traumatic injuries commonly encountered in combat situations.

Extremity hemorrhage can lead to significant blood loss, rapidly resulting in shock if not addressed promptly. Hemorrhage control techniques, such as applying tourniquets, play a vital role in preventing death from severe bleeding.

Tension pneumothorax occurs when air becomes trapped in the pleural cavity and creates pressure that can collapse a lung and impede breathing. This condition can be rapidly treatable through needle decompression, which alleviates the pressure and restores normal breathing.

Airway obstruction can arise from various battlefield injuries, including those that compromise the ability to breathe. Ensuring a patent airway is fundamental to survival, and techniques such as the recovery position or performing advanced airway management may be necessary.

Recognizing these three conditions as the main preventable causes enables combat lifesavers to prioritize their interventions effectively, ultimately improving the chances of survival for injured personnel.