Is the HPMK CoTCCC-recommended?
Yes. The HPMK® (Hypothermia Prevention and Management Kit) from North American Rescue is CoTCCC-recommended for the prevention of hypothermia during casualty care. It is the benchmark hypothermia prevention system in the TCCC guidelines, recognized for its combination of reinforced Heat Reflective Shell and integrated self-heating liner. The CoTCCC recommendation reflects validation through extensive military medical deployment and clinical evidence supporting its performance in combat casualty care environments.
How does the self-heating liner in the HPMK work?
The self-heating shell liner uses an oxygen-activated exothermic chemical reaction — it begins generating heat immediately upon exposure to ambient air when removed from its vacuum packaging. It requires no batteries, electrical connections, microwave preparation, or activation button. Once activated, it sustains up to 10 hours of continuous dry heat output. The 'dry heat' designation means it does not generate steam or moisture, preventing the evaporative heat loss that can occur with wet warming sources.
How does the HPMK pack and what space does it require in a kit bag?
Vacuum packaging compresses the HPMK to H 6.75 in × W 10.5 in × D 5.5 in at 3 lb 8 oz. This is designed to fit in standard medic bags, MARCH aid bags, and larger IFAK pouches without requiring a dedicated carry system. Once opened, the HRS deploys to 78 inches long by 43 inches wide — sufficient to completely encapsulate an adult patient including the head and feet. NAR Red Tip Technology® allows rapid deployment with gloved hands.
What is the difference between the HPMK and the HPMK-I?
The standard HPMK uses a 4-ply HRS outer shell and a standard self-heating shell liner for 10 hours of heat. The HPMK-I (Insulated) upgrades to a 5-ply HRS-I outer shell with added Climashield® insulation and replaces the standard liner with a 4-Cell Ready Heat™ blanket, also providing up to 10 hours of heat. The HPMK-I provides superior thermal performance in colder environments due to its insulated shell, making it the better choice for extended cold-weather operations, arctic conditions, and prolonged field care.
When in the TCCC sequence should the HPMK be applied?
The HPMK should be applied under the Hypothermia Prevention step of the TCCC MARCH sequence — after Massive hemorrhage control, Airway management, and Respiration (chest injuries). In practice, patient packaging with the HPMK should occur as early as operationally feasible, even before evacuation begins. Hypothermia prevention is most effective when started early — before the patient becomes significantly hypothermic. A patient who is normothermic is far easier to maintain than one who requires active rewarming in the field.
What is the lethal triad and why does the HPMK address it?
The lethal triad in trauma is hypothermia, coagulopathy (inability to clot), and acidosis. These three conditions potentiate each other: hypothermia worsens clotting, coagulopathy worsens hemorrhage, hemorrhage drives acidosis. The HPMK directly prevents hypothermia, breaking the first link. That is why CoTCCC places hypothermia prevention at 'H' in MARCH — it is not optional in severe trauma care.
Does the HPMK work in warm climates?
Yes. Trauma-induced hypothermia can occur at ambient temperatures above 70°F. Hemorrhagic shock causes peripheral vasoconstriction and impaired thermoregulation — the body loses core heat even in warm environments. The HPMK is indicated for all trauma casualties with significant hemorrhage regardless of ambient temperature.
How long does the self-heating liner stay active?
The oxygen-activated self-heating liner provides up to 10 hours of continuous dry heat — no external power source required. Activate by opening the packaging and allowing 30–60 seconds for the reaction to initiate before placing it against the patient's torso. Do not activate until ready to use — opening the package triggers the reaction.
Is the HPMK single-use?
Yes. The self-heating liner is a one-time chemical heat source. The HRS and vacuum barrier bag are also single-use for contamination control. Do not stage an opened or partially-used HPMK — replace after any activation.
What is the NSN and does MED-TAC support government procurement?
NSN: 6515-01-532-8056 for the standard HPMK. MED-TAC is SDVOSB-certified — we support government purchase orders, set-aside pricing, and SDVOSB-specific procurement. Contact orders@tactical-medicine.com for terms and bulk fulfillment.
