c. Explain the Procedure to the Casualty. If the casualty is conscious, tell
him what you are going to do. The explanation will help to calm his fears and obtain
d. Have One Person in Charge. One person must be in charge of the litter
team so actions will be performed in unison. If a combat medic is a member of the
litter squad, he will function as the leader. If a medic does not function as the leader,
then a combat lifesaver or other soldier can function as the leader of the litter squad.
3-20. PLACING A CASUALTY ON A LITTER USING THE FOUR-MAN MODIFIED
ARMS CARRY
If four bearers are available, the following method should be used to place a
casualty on a litter. A casualty that has a suspected back injury must be evacuated
without applying a spine board; therefore, a litter can be used.
a. Position the casualty on his back with his arms at his sides. If possible,
have the casualty clasp his hands together over his abdomen or grasp his wrist with
one hand. Place the litter nearby where it will be within reach of the leader.
b. One bearer (the leader) positions himself on one side of the casualty near
the casualty's hips and the other three bearers position themselves on the other side
of the casualty.
c. All bearers kneel on one knee and prepare to lift the casualty (figure 3-16).
Figure 3-16. Four bearers preparing to lift a casualty.
MD0001
3-16