Which item is found in the Joint First Aid Kit (JFAK)?

The Joint First Aid Kit (JFAK) is designed to provide essential supplies for immediate medical response in tactical situations. Among the items included, a chest seal is critical for treating open chest wounds, particularly from penetrating trauma, which can lead to conditions like a tension pneumothorax. The chest seal helps create a one-way valve that prevents air from entering the pleural space, thereby stabilizing the patient's condition until further medical treatment can be administered.

The other items, while useful in different medical contexts, are not typically included in the JFAK. For instance, a sphygmomanometer is used to measure blood pressure but is not essential for immediate battlefield trauma management. Similarly, a digital thermometer, while helpful in monitoring vital signs, does not address life-threatening injuries directly related to trauma. A defibrillator, although crucial for cardiac emergencies, is not practical for a first aid kit intended for tactical applications where portability and immediate trauma care are prioritized. Thus, the inclusion of a chest seal reflects the JFAK's focus on addressing the most urgent trauma-related needs in a combat scenario.