a. Open the Kit. Open the MAST kit and remove the MAST (inflatable leg and
abdominal sections) and the accessories (pump and hoses).
b. Unfold the Medical Anti-Shock Trousers . Unfold the MAST and unfasten the Velcro clos
Unfold the MAST so the left leg overlaps the right leg. Make sure the outside Velcro
fasteners face the ground and the valves are on the outside next to the ground.
c. Position the Medical Anti-Shock Trousers.
(1) If there is sufficient space below the casualty's feet, lay the MAST out
flat with the leg sections in the same direction as the casualty's legs (trousers in same
relative position as casualty's pants).
(2) If there is not sufficient space below the casualty's feet, lay the MAST
flat beside the casualty with the leg sections in the same direction as the casualty's
legs. Position the top of the MAST abdominal section just below the casualty's lowest
rib. If the casualty is very short, roll up the ends of the leg sections at the ankles.
(3) If the terrain is rough and a backboard is available, lay the MAST flat
on the backboard. The backboard can remain in place when you position the MAST
under the casualty.
d. Prepare the Casualty. Check for sharp objects in the casualty's pants and
gear. Remove these objects before applying the MAST. Remove or cut away
restrictive or bulky clothing or gear that could prevent the MAST from stabilizing the
casualty.
e. Place the Medical Anti-Shock Trousers Under the Casualty. Have another
soldier assist you put the MAST beneath the casualty. Serious injury or discomfort can
result if the casualty has a pelvic injury or a traction splint and one person tries to apply
the MAST alone. The steps given below can be used for a MAST placed below the
casualty's feet or beside the casualty. If your assistant is not a medical person, you
should lift the casualty while the assistant slides the MAST in position. Figure 7-3 shows
two medics applying the MAST.
CAUTION:
Do not lift the casualty any higher than absolutely necessary. If a
spinal injury is suspected, use the log roll technique described in
Subcourse MD0001, Evacuation in the Field, and Subcourse MD0533,
(1)
Lift the casualty's legs high enough to slide the MAST underneath.
(2)
Slide the MAST under the casualty's legs and up to the buttocks area.
(3)
Lift the casualty's buttocks high enough to slide the MAST underneath.
MD0554
7-8