During which phase of TCCC is immediate threat neutralization prioritized?

In the context of Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC), immediate threat neutralization is prioritized during the Care Under Fire phase. This phase occurs when the casualty is still in a combat situation where enemy fire poses a significant risk to both the casualty and the provider. The primary focus during Care Under Fire is ensuring the safety of the medic and the casualty, which includes returning fire at the enemy, moving to cover, and using available resources to control life-threatening bleeding quickly while still in a hostile environment.

The combination of assessing the environment for threats and administering necessary care under those circumstances makes this phase distinct. It emphasizes that while providing immediate medical assistance is essential, the safety of the person delivering that care is paramount. The ongoing danger dictates that any medical intervention must be performed in conjunction with actions taken to neutralize the threat. This approach ensures both the casualty and the medic can reach a safer position before more extensive medical treatment is rendered in subsequent phases, such as Tactical Field Care.