In MARCH, what does the C represent?

• A. Compression
• B. Circulation
• C. Contusion
• D. Cranial Pressure

Answer: (B)

Circulation. In the MARCH sequence, after addressing massive hemorrhage (and before finalizing airway and breathing steps), the focus is on keeping blood flowing to vital organs and stopping life-threatening bleeding. This means quickly assessing for signs of shock, applying effective bleeding control (pressure, tourniquets, hemostatic dressings), and securing IV or IO access for fluids as needed. The goal is to restore and maintain perfusion so tissues continue to receive oxygen and nutrients.

Compression, while used to stop bleeding, is a technique rather than the term for this stage. Contusion refers to a bruise, not a phase in the protocol, and cranial pressure relates to head injuries rather than the Circulation step.