Just got back from a military training course on trauma this weekend. Had lots of good info, but thought I'd distill some of it down for those of you into FAK's.

1. Celox, QuickClot, and the like are being phased out of military stocks. Apparently, in addition to the exothermic issues, there are reports of soldiers dying 1-2 years out from pulmonary emboli, attributed to the product. So, they're using their remaining stock, and using the Israeli bandage and the H-bandage (http://www.galls.com/style.html?assort=general_catalog&style=FA216)

2. Tourniquets are being used in a BIG way in Iraq/Afghanistan. And apparently causing a big percentage drop in fatalities due to exsanguination. So a few of them might be worthwhile, since trends from military medicine eventually trickle into the civilian world. A couple styles are being used, but in a pinch, a belt or a 'kerchief with a stick can do the job. Combat first aid isn't ABC's, it's CAB.

3. If you can get into the course, PreHospital Trauma Life Support would be a worthy use of money. I know a few community colleges offer these types of courses. Some might be open to enrollment of pre-health students only, but maybe one could audit the course. If nothing else, buy the book. Lots of good info. I took the Advanced version, but wouldn't recommend that unless you're real comfortable with your skills (have the PHTLS book from a decade back). It's also a good course cuz it distills lots of basics without having to go through an EMT course (another worth the price course)

4. Burns and compartment syndrome really suck. I'll be adding a few scalpels to my big kit.

Hope some of you get use from this info.