Source: United States Navy (Medical)
USNMRTC Sigonella Expands Trauma Readiness with ATLS Certification
By: CDR Radhames E. Lizardo
January 29, 2025
Sigonella, Italy – In a major step toward enhancing medical readiness, U.S. Naval Medicine Readiness and Training Command (USNMRTC) Sigonella partnered with Landstuhl Regional Medical Center (LRMC) to bring the Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) course to its medical personnel. This milestone marks a significant achievement for the small overseas command, equipping its healthcare professionals with critical trauma management skills.
Over two intensive 12-hour days, nine students completed rigorous academic and practical training in ATLS. The course covered life-saving techniques, including chest tube placement, cricothyrotomy procedures, Focused Assessment with Sonography in Trauma (FAST) exams, and pelvic binder application. The training culminated in the certification of all nine participants and the development of a new ATLS instructor, further strengthening the command’s ability to sustain and expand this vital program.
“This training is a game-changer for our medical team,” said Lieutenant Kristen Shafer [ER Physician & ATLS Instructor]. “By enhancing our trauma management capabilities, we are not only improving our confidence but also ensuring that we are prepared to respond effectively in high-pressure situations.”
The introduction of ATLS at USNMRTC Sigonella aligns with the command’s commitment to support the U.S. Navy Surgeon General’s Line of Effort 3 to “Provide Quality Healthcare and Patient Safety Programs Across the Naval Force.” Looking ahead, the command aims to continue offering this program, fostering a culture of excellence and preparedness in trauma care.
As a forward-deployed medical facility, USNMRTC Sigonella plays a crucial role in supporting service members and their families in the region. By integrating ATLS training into its readiness efforts, the command reaffirms its dedication to providing high-quality, immediate care when it matters most.
USNMRTC Sigonella is one of The Defense Health Agency’s Overseas Military Treatment Facilities (MTF). The staff are comprised of active duty service members, General Service (GS), contractors, and Local Nationals. It ensures maximum readiness by providing high-quality, safe patient and family-centered care to maximize force health protection for all beneficiaries, to included NATO and transient DoD forces in the U.S. Fifth Fleet and U.S. Sixth Fleet areas of operation.