ITLS - Abdominal Trauma Flashcards
What is the primary focus when evaluating abdominal trauma?
Attention to scene and mechanism of injury
Abdominal trauma is difficult to evaluate and requires careful assessment.
What are the major causes of preventable death in abdominal trauma?
Hemorrhage and infection
These factors significantly contribute to mortality in cases of abdominal trauma.
What is the mortality rate associated with blunt abdominal injuries?
10–30%
Blunt injuries are the most common type of abdominal trauma.
What is the mortality rate for penetrating abdominal injuries caused by gunshots?
5–15%
Gunshot wounds are a significant cause of penetrating abdominal injuries.
What is the mortality rate for stabbings in abdominal trauma?
1–2%
Stabbings typically result in lower mortality compared to gunshot wounds.
What are the accompanying injuries often seen in blunt abdominal injuries from motor vehicle collisions (MVC)?
Head, chest, extremity injuries
Approximately 70% of MVC victims may have these accompanying injuries.
What is the significance of the seat-belt sign in blunt abdominal injuries?
Indicates 25% chance of intra-abdominal injury
The seat-belt sign is a key indicator of potential internal injuries.
What should be done when a patient presents with evisceration?
Gently cover with moistened gauze
Do not push viscera back into the abdomen.
What should be done with an impaled object in an abdominal injury?
Do not remove and gently stabilize
Movement can worsen the injury and hemorrhage.
What is the role of a pelvic binder in abdominal trauma?
Stabilizes pelvis and decreases pelvic volume
It is crucial for managing pelvic fractures.
What are the signs of splenic injury?
Referred left posterior shoulder pain
This symptom can indicate damage to the spleen.
What are the signs of liver injury?
Referred right posterior shoulder pain
This pain can suggest hepatic injury.
True or False: Severe hemorrhage can be present with abdominal distention, tenderness, and guarding.
True
These signs indicate significant intra-abdominal bleeding.
What interventions are critical for patients with abdominal injuries?
- IV lines
- Pelvic binding
- Other interventions as needed
These measures are vital to manage shock and stabilize the patient.
Fill in the blank: The mechanism of blunt abdominal injury is primarily due to _______.
[Direct compression of abdomen]
Deceleration forces may also contribute.
What is a new trend in managing major trauma in EMS?
FAST exam in the ambulance
This protocol enhances the assessment of internal injuries.
What is the purpose of tranexamic acid (TXA) in trauma care?
Used for internal bleeding
TXA can help reduce mortality associated with hemorrhage.
What is a critical step in the assessment of intra-abdominal injury?
Rapid patient assessment
Timely recognition and treatment are essential for survival.
