Trauma Management in Emergency Care

These flashcards cover critical concepts related to emergency trauma management, focusing on hemorrhage control, crush injuries, burns, and transport considerations.

What is the first step in hemorrhage control?

Expose the wound and apply direct pressure to the bleeding site.

When should a tourniquet be placed?

If direct pressure does not stop the bleeding, place a tourniquet.

Where should a tourniquet be placed?

2-3 inches proximal to the wound, not over a joint.

What materials can be used for wound packing?

Hemostatic gauze, regular gauze or any available material.

What should be done if bleeding continues after the first tourniquet?

Place a second tourniquet proximal to the first.

What injury types indicate the use of wound packing?

Groin/axillary ('junctional') injury or limb wounds with persistent bleeding.

What is the role of TXA in trauma?

Consider TXA for patients with significant bleeding.

What is the importance of hydration in crush injuries?

Hydration helps prevent secondary renal failure and death from crush injuries.

What are the signs of compartment syndrome?

Pain on passive stretch, paresthesia, paralysis, pallor, and pulselessness.

How long must compression occur to consider it a crush injury?

Crush injury typically occurs with compression of 4-6 hours.

What fluids should be administered during crush injury treatment?

Large bore IV access with normal saline at 1.5L/hr during extrication.

What injury management is required for burns?

Assess length of exposure, type of injury, and medical history.

What is the rule of nines used for?

To estimate the percentage of body surface burned.

How should chemical burns be treated?

Rinse with water for 20 minutes, with exceptions for phosphorus and lime burns.

What is the appropriate fluid resuscitation for individuals aged 6-13?

250ml/hr if using LR or NS.

For adults, what is the fluid resuscitation rate?

500ml/hr.

What should be monitored closely in burn victims?

Core temperature to prevent hypothermia.

How should third degree burns in any age group be managed?

Transport to a Burn Center.

What is the critical distinction for transporting burn patients?

Transport to a Level I Burn Center for critical burns.

What should be done for partial-thickness burns greater than 10% TBSA?

Transport to Burn Center.

What temperature monitoring is recommended for burn patients?

Obtain temperature when possible.

What should be done before a burn patient enters the ambulance?

Decontaminate if exposed to hazardous materials.

What is the purpose of covering eviscerations with moist dressings?

To protect the exposed organs and maintain moisture.

What should be done for impaled objects prior to moving a patient?

Stabilize the impaled objects.

What is the assessment focus for electrical burns?

Take spinal precautions and assess for extremity fractures.

What should you do if a patient shows signs of shock?

Refer to the shock protocol and treat associated injuries.

What should not be overlooked in trauma treatment?

Additional injuries including airway compromise, hypothermia, and hyperthermia.

What does the assessment of lung sounds indicate?

It is important for monitoring fluid resuscitation effectiveness in burn patients.

Why might elderly patients need careful fluid management?

To monitor closely for volume overload.

What does 'pain management protocol' refer to?

Specific guidelines for managing a patient's pain effectively.

In what situation should two tourniquets be placed side by side?

For thigh wounds requiring significant control of bleeding.

What is not recommended after applying packing to a wound?

Do not remove the packing to assess bleeding.

What should be done for burn injuries resulting from dust exposure?

Consider nebulized Albuterol.

What is a crucial action after crush injury management?

Begin immediate transport to a trauma center.