5 Trauma Assessment and Management Free Online FlashCards

How should the mechanism of injury guide trauma assessment?

Use the mechanism to anticipate possible injuries and guide examination, but do not treat it as proof of a specific injury or a substitute for assessment.

What comes first in scene size-up?

Check scene safety, use appropriate protective equipment, identify patients and resource needs, and consider hazards before entering.

What does X mean in the XABCDE approach?

In XABCDE, X means finding and controlling life-threatening external bleeding immediately.

When is a secondary trauma assessment appropriate?

Perform a focused or rapid head-to-toe examination when the patient is stable enough. An unstable patient needs ongoing primary assessment and transport, not a prolonged exam.

When should spinal motion restriction be considered?

Consider SMR for blunt trauma with findings such as altered mental status, midline spinal pain or tenderness, focal neurologic findings, or spinal deformity, following protocol.

What are key steps for applying an extremity tourniquet?

For life-threatening extremity bleeding, place a commercial tourniquet above the wound, not over a joint, and tighten until bleeding stops. Note the application time and do not loosen it in the field unless directed.

Why can normal blood pressure be misleading in early shock?

Falling blood pressure can be a late sign. A normal blood pressure reading does not rule out early shock.

What are key priorities when treating suspected hemorrhagic shock?

Control bleeding, support airway and breathing, keep the patient warm, and transport promptly. Reassess frequently and avoid giving food or drink.

What abdominal findings may suggest internal bleeding?

Pain, tenderness, bruising, rigidity, or penetrating injury may indicate internal bleeding; the abdomen’s external appearance can underestimate severity.

What should be avoided when pelvic injury is suspected?

Avoid rocking or repeatedly compressing the pelvis, which may worsen injury; prioritize careful movement and rapid transport.

What should be reassessed before and after splinting an extremity?

Check and document distal pulse, skin color and temperature, sensation, and movement before and after splinting.

What are key initial priorities for a thermal burn?

Stop the burning process, assess for airway, breathing, circulation, and associated trauma, and cool with cool water when appropriate. Avoid ice and prevent hypothermia.