traumatic arrest Flashcards
What is the first step in managing cardiac arrest secondary to trauma that is different to a standard arrest ?
Do not initially perform chest compressions
Focus on reversible causes instead.
What should be controlled first in cases of cardiac arrest secondary to trauma?
Control external bleeding
This is crucial to address hypovolaemia.
What is the recommended ventilation rate for a patient in cardiac arrest secondary to trauma?
10 breaths/minute
Use an endotracheal tube (ETT) or supraglottic airway (SGA).
What should be attached to monitor blood flow during resuscitation?
ETCO2
This helps assess cardiac output.
What is the fluid administration guideline for an adult in cardiac arrest secondary to trauma?
2-3 litres of 0.9% sodium chloride
Adjust volume based on patient response.
What is the fluid administration guideline for a child in cardiac arrest secondary to trauma?
40-60 ml/kg of 0.9% sodium chloride
Use pediatric drug dose tables for accuracy.
What is the recommended TXA dosage for an adult in cardiac arrest secondary to trauma?
2 g IV
Refer to pediatric drug dose tables for child dosage.
What should be done if pelvic injury is suspected?
Splint the pelvis
This helps stabilize the patient.
What is the recommended action if the rhythm deteriorates into asystole for more than a few minutes?
Stop resuscitation
This indicates a poor prognosis.
What is the priority in resuscitation for cardiac arrest secondary to trauma?
Treat potentially reversible causes
Such as tension pneumothorax and hypovolaemia.
Why are chest compressions not performed initially in trauma-related cardiac arrest?
To treat potentially reversible causes first
Performing compressions may impair access.
When should transport to a trauma hospital be arranged?
As soon as possible
Transport to the closest major trauma hospital.
What should be considered if the patient is in PEA?
The possibility of undetectable cardiac output
This may require continued assessment and intervention.
What is the protocol for resuscitation if a patient is trapped?
Usually inappropriate to commence unless extrication is possible in 1-2 minutes
Focus on safety and feasibility.
What is the prognosis for cardiac arrest secondary to trauma?
Poor prognosis, but survival is possible with focused resuscitation
Immediate correction of reversible causes is crucial.
What should be done simultaneously during resuscitation efforts?
Perform treatments and tasks rapidly
Prioritize based on the patient’s needs.
When should blood be called for during resuscitation?
Only if there is an established protocol for delivery to the scene
Follow local guidelines for blood administration.
