ADAPTATION TO EXTREME CONDITIONS DURING COMBAT CASUALTY CARE

Abstract

Purpose: to explore the adaptation of medical personnel to extreme conditions of war while delivering combat casualty care, in order to identify key challenges and develop recommendations for supporting medics in operational environments. Materials and Methods. The study was based on a sociological survey of 224 respondents – health workers and students of medical universities with experience in providing combat casualty care. A questionnaire with closed and open-ended questions was used. Quantitative and qualitative content analysis was performed. The materials of this article were used in writing the qualification paper. Results. The findings reveal that the main factors hindering adaptation to combat conditions are high levels of stress, lack of prior psychological training, insufficient protective equipment, and the unpredictability of shelling or combat situations. At the same time, key adaptive resources include peer support, self-control skills, leadership presence, and the availability of medical supplies. Younger medics (under 25 years old) showed higher vulnerability to stressors compared to older age groups. Conclusions. Adaptation to combat conditions is a multidimensional process that requires comprehensive support at the physiological, psychological and organizational levels. A systematic program of support for medics in combat conditions needs to be implemented: mandatory stress management training, improvement of simulation training, improvement of logistical support, psychological support and development of team interaction. It is recommended to create interdisciplinary programs for training and support for medics in the combat zone.