Enterprise Conducts Medical Response Training

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kristin M. Baker, USS Enterprise (CVN 65) Public Affairs

USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Enterprise (CVN 65) conducted its tailored ship's training availability (TSTA) while underway Aug. 5.

During TSTA, Enterprise Sailors faced realistic scenarios and exercises designed to assess their ability to react in emergency situations.

One of the key players in these exercises is Medical department, which is conducting training assessments and real-life scenarios throughout TSTA.

These drills help assess the crew's level of knowledge when responding to life-threatening injuries and provide on-site training. Well-trained Sailors can react quickly when they arrive on scene, rather than waiting for the medical response team – these valuable minutes can be the difference between life and death.

With more than 5,000 personnel aboard Enterprise during sustained combat operations at sea, knowledge is the power that saves lives and prevents injuries.

Sailors across the fleet learn to administer first aid for the eight basic war wounds most commonly sustained by Sailors.

"The Medical Training Team (MTT) will go to a space or department and drop off a wounded Sailor," said Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class (SW) Jason M. Corbett, a member of Medical department's Radiation Health division. "As the crew responds, an MTT member assesses the situation and provides the necessary training on the spot. This is done for all eight of the most common life-threatening injuries the crew may encounter."

During the underway period, Medical will also be conducting mass casualty drills, medical response team drills and general quarters drills. Each drill is evaluated and used as a training opportunity.

"This training allows the crew to prove to themselves and each other just how knowledgeable they are when it comes to saving a life," said Corbett. "It helps to build a trust that directly affects the crew's willingness to complete the mission."

Saving lives, conducting training and dealing with the common cold is an average day for the Medical Department aboard Enterprise. During TSTA, Medical Department continues their hard work to ensure all personnel aboard Enterprise are prepared for sustained combat operations at sea.

Enterprise is at sea conducting work-ups leading to its 21st deployment.