Trauma

Anticipate patient needs: Proactively predict what interventions the patient might require.
Maintain a calm environment: Keep noise levels low to reduce anxiety for patients and families.
Advocate for the patient: Ensure that the patient's best interests are prioritized within the healthcare team.
Delegate tasks: Assign appropriate duties to team members based on their competencies.
Formulate life-saving measures: Create a plan of action for emergency responses.
Focus on closed-loop communication: Ensure that messages are clearly understood and confirmed between team members.
Documentation processes: Accurately record patient data and interventions.
Wound care management: Competently handle and care for wounds on patients.
Obtain vascular access: Secure intravenous or intraosseous access for medication administration.
Set up medical procedures: Prepare necessary equipment and materials in advance for procedures.
Monitor during transport: Keep a close eye on patient vitals and condition while transferring.
Medication preparation and administration: Carefully get medications ready and provide them to the patient as needed.

C - Circulation:
- Assess bleeding across the room.
- Check blood pressure and heart rate for signs of shock.
- Conduct lab tests and monitor venous access.
A - Airway:
- Use a jaw thrust maneuver to maintain a patent airway.
B - Breathing:
- Inspect for respiratory distress and provide oxygen as necessary.
D - Disability:
- Conduct neurological assessments and monitor blood glucose levels.
E - Exposure/Environment:
- Fully expose the patient to assess for injuries but keep them warm with blankets to prevent hypothermia.
F - Family involvement:
- Ensure that family members are included in care discussions; complete a full set of vitals.
G - Get monitoring devices:
- Set up monitoring equipment to provide ongoing patient data.
O - Oxygen delivery:
- Administer oxygen therapy as indicated.
P - Pain management:
- Manage pain effectively using pharmacological and non-pharmacological options.
T - Tetanus prophylaxis:
- Administer for open wounds as necessary.

Recognize that hypothermia can impair clotting capabilities; keep the patient warm with blankets.

Understand that conditions like coagulopathy may result from whole blood management and fluid totals not being appropriately tracked.
Be alert for metabolic acidosis caused by ventilation misinterpretations and delayed imaging evaluations.
In cases of suspected abuse, be vigilant:
- TEN4 Rule: Check for bruising on the torso, ears, and neck or any bruises in infants under 4 months old.

Airway differences: Children have smaller airways and large occiputs; use towels under their shoulders for optimal positioning.
Vascular access challenges: Be prepared for difficulties in establishing venous access.
Respiratory causes: Be aware that many codes in pediatrics arise from respiratory issues.

Acknowledge that trauma in pregnant women has a high fetal mortality rate (up to 82%).