Trauma Primary Secondary Surveys and Complications

Vocabulary flashcards covering trauma assessment, emergency department and disaster triage levels, primary and secondary surveys, and fracture complications.

First Step in ED Triage

Obtaining vital signs, chief complaint, history of present illness, and a focused assessment.

ESI Level 1

Resuscitation category indicating that the client requires an immediate lifesaving intervention.

ESI Level 2

Category for a high-risk presentation, new confusion/lethargy/disorientation, or severe pain or distress requiring immediate evaluation.

ESI Level 3

Category for a stable client expected to require two or more ED resources.

ESI Level 4

Category for a stable client expected to require one ED resource.

ESI Level 5

Category for a stable client expected to require no ED resources.

Three Broad Triage Categories

Emergent, urgent, and delayed.

Primary Disaster Triage

Triage performed in the field to prioritize treatment and transport.

Secondary Disaster Triage

Reassessment and prioritization performed in the emergency department.

Tertiary Disaster Triage

Further prioritization as clients move from the ED to an ICU or operating room.

ABCDE

The trauma assessment sequence standing for Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Disability, and Exposure.

Primary Trauma Survey Priority

To find and address immediately life-threatening airway, respiratory, circulatory, and neurologic problems.

AVPU

A tool used to assess level of consciousness: Alert, responds to Voice, responds to Pain, Unresponsive.

Findings Suggesting Immediate Resuscitation Need

Apnea, pulselessness, unresponsiveness, severe respiratory distress, or need for immediate lifesaving intervention.

Secondary Survey

A more complete head-to-toe assessment performed after immediate threats have been stabilized.

Exam 2 Blueprint Fracture Complications

Infection, bleeding, DVT, fat embolism syndrome, and compartment syndrome.

Neurovascular Assessment

Evaluation emphasized before and after fracture interventions that compares pain, sensation, movement, pulses, and perfusion with baseline.

Priority in Suspected Compartment Syndrome

Recognize worsening pain, sensory/motor and perfusion changes; report urgently, anticipate prescribed intervention, and reassess after treatment.