Introduction to Trauma Care
last authored:
last reviewed:
Introduction
Tri-modal distribution of mortality
immediate cause of death
early deaths within 1-3 hours
- pneumothorax
- late deaths
Prevention
- laws
- seat belts
- helmets
- play a role in teachable moments
golden hour
- rapid transport
- early recognition of injury
- definitive care
trauma systems are organized approach to acutely injured people providing personnel, facilities, and equipment for optimal care on an emergency basis, within a defined geographical area
MVCs often follow trips to restaurants.
Pediatrics
Children are at risk of damage to various organ systems, for the following reasons:
- head: large head relative to their body, as well as poor protective reflexes
- neck: shorter
- airway: large tongue can obstruct airway; larynx more anterior; epiglottis floppier
- chest: ribs flexible and less protective; abdominal breathing with a full stomach can compromise breathing
- abdomen: less protected by muscle and ribs; liver and spleen more exposed; major injury can have only minor outward signs
- bones: growth plate weaker than ligaments - Salter-Harris fractures more common
Resources and References
 |