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Elite First Aid Decompression Needle - 3.25″ Needle D (14g) | ARS
$16.99
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Med Source Decompression Needle - 3.25″ Needle D (14g)
$15.49
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Most of our trauma kits and first aid supplies qualify for HSA and FSA reimbursement. Don't let your benefits expire — invest them in gear that could save a life.
Our Mission.
We've been downrange. We know what it costs to be unprepared. ViTAC was built by U.S. Army Special Operations veterans to make sure the people who run toward the threat — and the families who depend on them — have gear that works when everything is on the line.
— ViTAC Solutions Founders | 40+ years combined Special Operations experience
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Add'l Info
If You Only Remember This…
- Needle decompression is an advanced trauma procedure used to relieve tension pneumothorax — a condition where trapped air progressively collapses a lung and shifts the heart and great vessels
- The standard decompression needle in tactical and EMS settings is the ARS 14g, 3.25" needle from North American Rescue
- This is an advanced procedure — carry decompression needles only if you've been formally trained (TCCC, EMT-P, paramedic, or military medic)
What Is Needle Decompression?
Needle decompression (also called needle thoracostomy) is the emergency insertion of a large-bore needle into the chest cavity to release trapped air that's collapsing a lung. It's used when tension pneumothorax develops — a complication of penetrating chest trauma where air enters the pleural space and progressively builds pressure, compressing the lung, heart, and great vessels.
Without decompression, tension pneumothorax is rapidly fatal. With proper decompression, the patient can be stabilized for transport to definitive care.
What's Inside This Collection
- ARS Decompression Needle 14g, 3.25" — from North American Rescue, the most-used decompression needle in U.S. military and tactical EMS
- Decompression Needle 14g, 3.25" — alternative format for individual carry and trauma kit refills
How to Choose the Right Decompression Needle
1. Default to 14g, 3.25"
This is the standard size for adult chest decompression. The 3.25" length is required to reach the pleural space through chest wall tissue and muscle.
2. Carry Only If Trained
Needle decompression is performed by trained EMTs, paramedics, tactical medics, military corpsmen, and physicians. Improper insertion can cause serious injury — including pneumothorax, vascular injury, or cardiac trauma.
3. Pair With Chest Seals
Decompression needles work in conjunction with chest seals. Seal the wound, then decompress if tension develops. Both should be in any advanced trauma kit.
4. Verify Site & Technique
Standard insertion sites are the 5th intercostal space, anterior axillary line (preferred per current TCCC guidance) or the 2nd intercostal space, midclavicular line. Site selection and technique are taught in formal training.
5. Track Expiration
Sterile packaging degrades over time. Inspect annually and replace before expiration to maintain sterility.
Who This Collection Is For (And Who It's Not For)
This is for you if: You're a trained EMT, paramedic, tactical medic, military corpsman, or physician with formal needle decompression training. You're refilling an advanced trauma kit or stocking decompression needles for an agency or facility.
This may not be for you if: You haven't been trained on needle decompression. This is not a Stop the Bleed® or basic civilian trauma intervention.
Ready to Stock Decompression Capability?
Browse the collection below for ARS and standard decompression needles. Pair with proper training and clinical judgment.
Training in proper airway management and chest decompression is required for safe use.