Trauma protocol Flashcards
What are the “Red Criteria” for high-risk serious injury in trauma patients?
Penetrating injuries to head, neck, torso, or proximal extremities; suspected skull or spinal fracture with sensory loss; chest wall instability; suspected pelvic or two or more proximal long bone fractures; active bleeding requiring a tourniquet; and high-risk auto crashes, among others.
What vital sign abnormalities trigger trauma system entry for ages 10-64 years?
SBP < 90 mmHg or HR > SBP.
Who provides Off-Line Medical Direction for trauma patients?
Off-Line Medical Direction is guided by BLS or ALS protocols adopted by EMSAB, EMS agencies, and EMS Medical Directors.
What overrides Off-Line Medical Direction?
On-Line Medical Control (OLMC).
What information must an EMS provider relay to the TCC after determining a trauma patient should enter the system?
Unit number and identity, location, number of patients, trauma entry criteria, trauma band numbers, vitals, and estimated time of arrival (ETA).
When should patients be transported to the closest trauma center?
Unless advised otherwise by OLMC or if airway control cannot be established, necessitating the nearest hospital for definitive airway control.
What is the protocol for multiple patients from the same scene?
The first two unstable patients go to the designated Level-I facility; others are directed to alternative Level-I hospitals by TCC.
When is helicopter ambulance service recommended?
If it saves 10 minutes of prehospital time, with exceptions for scene circumstances like traffic or extended extrication.
What is the priority order for trauma treatment?
1) Control hemorrhage, 2) Maintain airway and control the cervical spine, 3) Breathing, 4) Circulation control, 5) Treat shock, 6) Splint fractures, 7) Perform neurological exams, 8) Conduct a detailed patient assessment.
What is the target scene time for trauma patients entered into the Trauma System?
Not to exceed 10 minutes.
