Which of the following is a critical action in preparing a casualty for evacuation?

Completing and securing the DD Form 1380, also known as the Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) card, is a critical action in preparing a casualty for evacuation because it ensures that all vital information regarding the casualty's condition and treatment is documented and communicated to the receiving medical personnel. This form provides essential data such as vital signs, interventions that have been performed, and the mechanism of injury, which enables the healthcare team to quickly assess the patient's needs upon arrival at a medical facility.

Accurate and complete documentation is crucial for continuity of care, especially in high-stress and chaotic environments where quick decision-making is necessary. It allows the receiving medical team to understand what care has already been administered and to make informed decisions regarding further treatment. Missing or inaccurate information can lead to delays in necessary interventions, potentially compromising patient outcomes.

Other choices may involve aspects of care that are important but do not hold the same urgency or necessity in terms of preparing the casualty for transport. Vitals may be checked, but they are not fundamentally required for evacuation preparation. Administering advanced medications and providing food and water, while they may be beneficial in certain contexts, are typically not appropriate actions in the immediate pre-evacuation phase and may distract from essential