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Discussion. Presently, FFLAB manning provides four nurses and 17 medical 
technicians for each MASF. During periods of peak patient loads, MASF nurses 
experienced great difficulty in meeting the medication requirements of the 
severely traumatized patients. Having only two nurses assigned per shift 
compounded the problem. Aeromedical technicians receive no specific training 
or certification in medication administration. This reduces the flexibility 
and capabilities of personnel assigned to care for patients. - 
 
		Recommendation. Technicians should be trained and 
certified to give medications, including narcotics, because the 
nurse-patient ratio could become overwhelming. The technicians' 
ability to administer drugs in the tactical scenario would enhance 
quality patient care. 
 
(10) Introduction of New Tactical/Strategic AE Kits. 
 
Observation. New tactical and strategic AE kits were introduced into the AOR 
on the eve of the air campaign. 
 
Discussion. In December, a message was distributed by HQ MAC/SGO describing 
the new tactical and strategic AE kits that were being distributed into the 
AOR. An immediate phone call was made to relate our concern regarding 
introducing new equipment at such an inopportune time. The kits had entirely 
new containers and contents than the 102 tactical/strategic kits already in 
the theater. In addition, the strategic kits were different than the tactical 
kits, thereby negating the flexibility of using the kits interchangeably on 
C-130 and C-141 AE missions. We requested that the kits remain standardized as 
before, rather than having new kits introduced in January. However, since the 
kits were already being assembled, that was apparently not possible. HQ 
MAC/SOON did state that we could reorganize the new kits upon their arrival, 
based upon the old inventory. To further compound the problem, the soft-sided 
tactical kits arrived with inventories for each pack, but lacked a complete 
inventory indicating how many packs were to comprise a complete tactical kit 
(three backpacks, one field pack, and three A-3 bags). As a result, the flight 
surgeons identified the backpacks as their medical kits and took them for 
their own personal use. 
 
Recommendation. Introducing new equipment in January was inopportune. If it 
was essential to build new kits based upon new specifications, the kits should 
have been sent in sufficient time to allow thorough orientation and training 
for the 700+ AECMs in the AOR. Issues such as this must be carefully monitored 
to ensure no potential degradation in patient care due to unfamiliarity with 
supplies and/or equipment. 
 
(11) Operations in a Chemically-Contaminated Environment. 
 
Observation. AECMs were poorly prepared to operate in a potentially 
contaminated environment. 
 
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