What type of tape is in the NAR 2" Flat Medical Tape kit?
The NAR 2" Flat Medical Tape uses genuine 3M Durapore™ silk medical tape. Durapore is a high-adhesion, water-resistant medical-grade tape widely used in clinical and pre-hospital settings for securing IV catheters, wound dressings, and airway devices. Each kit contains six pre-cut 2" × 15" strips totaling 90 inches of tape.
How does the flat-pack format benefit IFAK packing?
The flat-pack format reduces the tape to just 0.34 inches thick — a fraction of a standard roll. This allows it to fit inside small IFAKs, vacuum-sealed trauma kits, and MOLLE pouches where a roll would be impractical. The tri-folded strips are lightly vacuum-sealed to further compress the pack while maintaining flexibility for various kit configurations.
Can the strips be used with gloves on?
Yes. Each strip features an easy peel-off release backer designed for application with nitrile or latex gloves. The 3M Durapore material is designed to adhere strongly to skin and medical device surfaces, making it suitable for high-stress, gloved-hand scenarios common in tactical and pre-hospital care.
Is this tape suitable for securing IV lines in the field?
Absolutely. The 2" width provides sufficient surface area to secure standard IV catheters (14g–20g), extension sets, and Y-connectors. The Durapore adhesive maintains hold on skin even in humid or slightly damp conditions, making it reliable for field IV access during hemorrhagic shock resuscitation.
How many uses does one kit provide?
Each kit contains 6 pre-cut strips. Depending on application (IV line anchoring typically uses 1–2 strips; full dressing reinforcement may use 2–3), a single kit can support multiple medical interventions or fully outfit one patient encounter. The resealable poly bag preserves unused strips after the kit is opened.
Is the NAR 2" Flat Medical Tape CoTCCC-recommended?
The tape itself is a consumable supply item, not a device subject to CoTCCC device recommendations. CoTCCC recommends specific tourniquets, hemostatic dressings, and chest seals; tape is a universally required ancillary supply in all CoTCCC-compliant IFAK protocols.
What training is required to use this tape?
No specialized training is required beyond basic first aid or TCCC/TECC familiarization. Tape application is taught as a foundational skill in all CoTCCC CLS, All-Combatant, and TCCC/TECC curricula.
Is this tape compatible with HyFin® Vent Chest Seals?
Yes. Durapore tape is widely used to reinforce HyFin® Vent Compact and standard HyFin® seal borders on patients with chest hair, diaphoresis, or fragile skin, where the seal adhesive alone may lift. Apply a 2" strip around the perimeter after placing the seal.
Does the NAR 2" Flat Tape have an NSN or GSA contract?
The ZZ-0576 flat-pack is a North American Rescue catalog item available through authorized distributors including MED-TAC International. For government procurement via DLA or GSA, contact MED-TAC International for current contract availability and NSN lookup.
How does the resealable bag affect shelf life?
The tri-folded strips are lightly vacuum-sealed inside a resealable poly bag rated to preserve the Durapore adhesive for the manufacturer's stated shelf life. Once opened, unused strips can be returned to the resealable bag; the adhesive remains effective for subsequent uses provided the strips are not contaminated or excessively heat-exposed.
