When does a casualty need immediate evacuation?

A casualty requires immediate evacuation when they have life-threatening injuries that necessitate advanced medical care. This is crucial as such injuries, which may involve severe bleeding, airway compromise, or major trauma to vital organs, can deteriorate rapidly without prompt, higher-level medical intervention. The urgency of the situation demands that these casualties be transported to a medical facility where they can receive the specialized treatment that is beyond the capabilities of a combat lifesaver.

In contrast, complaints of minor injuries do not warrant immediate evacuation because they can typically be managed with basic first aid and do not pose an immediate threat to the casualty's life. Stabilization by a combat lifesaver is important, but it does not replace the need for evacuation in cases where the injuries are life-threatening; instead, it may be a preliminary step before evacuation. Additionally, the length of unconsciousness, like the five-minute threshold mentioned, is only one aspect and not a standard rule for evacuation; many other factors dictate the urgency based on the specifics of the injury rather than solely on consciousness duration.