The HALO is in our inventory, at least it is in SOF. As for what is in the issued IFAK, I am not sure.
I never leave the catheter in. It is just easier to do another one if need be. The likelihood of the catheter becoming obstructed is very high. Most likely from blood clotting. That is a technique to use a 5ml syringe. What ever works for you. Just remember that you are graded on results and not style when trying to save a life.
Yeah, agreed. I also remove the needle after successful decompression. Like you say, easier to just another one.
The HALO is what we started being issued in 2012.
The technique with the syringe and saline was taught to me by an 18D, FWIW, so not trying to score style points 
The purpose behind the technique is to get better feedback on whether the intervention was successful or not, than just relying on an audible release of air.
Thanks for your feedback above. I’ve only ever decompressed in an ER setting, so we leave the catheter in until chest tube is inserted, then remove.
I like that idea, Arctic1. I’ve only ever NCD’d an ANA Soldier (I’m only an NREMT-B, not a 68W) and relying on an audible reaction is great in theory, but not so much in reality. I’ll talk to our Company senior medic about it whenever the Army decides to stop having a snow day.
As for the IFAK, I just took pics of the contents and the layout of the pouch. It is in fact Bolin chest seals, not the Hyfin X. My old IFAK has the Hyfin and this is the first real time I’ve taken the IFAK II apart and checked it out.
I don’t like how the chest seal is inside of its own pocket on the body of the pouch itself. You can only access that pocket from the rear (as worn), so if a Soldier mounts the pouch normally and is receiving care while on his back, you would have to roll him around to get to the casualty card and chest seal. The pouch can be removed quickly from the body by a velcro pull-tab on both sides.
Anyway, pics:
The back of the tourniquet pouch doesn’t just have traditional MOLLE. You can use the velcro tabs to mount it almost anywhere, including rigger belts.
Doc, PM inbound regarding the packing list.
ETA: Everyone already knows this, but just to clarify: the Combat Gauze is provided through RFI and is not a part of the IFAK II contents.
We now have Olaes bandages issued in our med kits. They could easily fit in an IFAK also. It has a pressure cap that can double as an eye cup. This is a great bandage for any wound not needing a tourniquet. Will still have Stasolins but can’t imagine needing to use one. Tactical Medical Solutions is a great resource for tactical medical products.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DEwDZEVhjfs&feature=youtu.be
That did not take long…
This looks ridiculously slick. Would have been nice to have in 06-07. My IFAK was always snagging on the turret ring.
could we get a copy paste for those who can’t access facebook?