Trauma Assessment

Quick Study Guide for Trauma Assessment

 

Focused History and Physical Exam—Trauma with No Significant Mechanism of Injury (MOI)

·    Reconsider the MOI.

·    Determine the chief complaint.

·    Perform a focused physical exam.

·    Obtain baseline vital signs.

·    Take a SAMPLE history.

 

DCAP-BTLS

·    D—Deformities

·    C—Contusions

·    A—Abrasions

·    A—Punctures/Penetrations

·    B—Burns

·    T—Tenderness

·    L—Lacerations

·    S—Swelling

 

Focused History and Physical Exam—Trauma with a Significant Mechanism of Injury (MOI)

·    Reconsider the MOI.

·    Continue manual stabilization of the head and neck.

·    Consider requesting advanced life support.

·    Reconsider transport decision.

·    Reassess mental status.

·    Perform a rapid trauma assessment.

·    Obtain baseline vital signs.

·    Take a SAMPLE history.

 

Rapid Trauma Assessment

·    Head

·    Neck (apply cervical collar)

·    Chest

·    Abdomen

·    Pelvis

·    Extremities

·    Posterior body (immobilize to a backboard)

 

Detailed Physical Exam

·    Repeat initial assessment.

·    Complete all critical interventions.

·    Head

·    Neck

·    Chest

·    Abdomen

·    Pelvis

·    Extremities

·    Posterior body

·    Reassess vital signs.