Introduction to MS trauma Flashcards
What are the primary causes of musculoskeletal trauma?
Traffic accidents, falls, sports injuries, penetrating trauma
What is the first step in treating a patient with musculoskeletal trauma?
Ensure airway, breathing, and circulation (ABC)
Why is cervical spine protection important in trauma patients?
To prevent spinal cord injury
What are the signs of an open fracture?
Bone protrusion, bleeding, visible wound
What is the difference between an open and closed fracture?
Open fractures break through the skin; closed fractures do not
What are the common symptoms of a fracture?
Pain, swelling, deformity, loss of function
How do you manage a dislocation in first aid?
Immobilize and seek medical help; do not attempt reduction
What is the primary concern in pelvic fractures?
Severe internal bleeding
What is the function of the meniscus in the knee joint?
Shock absorption and joint stability
What are the key assessments in a head-to-toe musculoskeletal evaluation?
Swelling, deformities, tenderness, range of motion
Why should active and passive motion be assessed in musculoskeletal injuries?
To evaluate function and detect hidden injuries
What is the purpose of a pelvic binder in trauma care?
To stabilize the pelvis and reduce bleeding
What is the main risk associated with femoral shaft fractures?
Severe hemorrhage and fat embolism
What is a stress fracture and how does it occur?
Tiny crack in a bone caused by repetitive stress
What type of swelling suggests bleeding in musculoskeletal injuries?
Rapidly progressing swelling
What type of swelling suggests edema in musculoskeletal injuries?
Slowly growing swelling
How can ecchymosis help in diagnosing trauma?
It indicates underlying bleeding or tissue damage
What is the importance of reassessing vitals and ABCs in trauma?
To detect deterioration and ensure stability
Why should you not move a patient with a suspected spinal injury?
To prevent further damage to the spinal cord
What is the most common mechanism of a FOOSH injury?
Falling on an outstretched hand
What are the signs of the “unhappy triad” injury?
Severe knee pain, swelling, instability, difficulty walking
Why is tetanus prophylaxis given for open fractures?
To prevent tetanus infection
What is the first step in managing a gunshot wound to the extremities?
Control bleeding and prevent infection
Why is mechanical stability important in fracture management?
To prevent further injury and facilitate healing
What is the key first aid measure for penetrating trauma?
Control bleeding and prevent contamination
Why is it important to talk to witnesses in sports injuries?
To understand the mechanism of injury
How can passive motion assessment help diagnose injuries?
Identifies joint stiffness and pain source
What is the primary function of tendons?
Transmit force from muscle to bone for movement
What is the main function of ligaments?
Provide joint stability by connecting bones
What does a weak pulse in an injured limb indicate?
Possible vascular injury or compartment syndrome
Why is rapid assessment important in musculoskeletal trauma?
To prevent life-threatening complications
