Question

A semiconscious young female has just been extricated from her wrecked vehicle. Her airway is patent, her respirations are rapid and shallow, and her pulse is rapid and weak. She has bilaterally closed femur fractures; an open humerus fracture with active bleeding; a rigid, distended abdomen; and a large hematoma to her forehead. The closest trauma center is 25 miles away. What interventions should you perform at the scene?

Answer 1

In this scenario, it is important to prioritize interventions based on the severity of the patient's injuries. The first step would be to ensure that the patient's airway remains open and her breathing is supported. Next, attention should be given to the bleeding from the open humerus fracture by applying direct pressure to control the bleeding. Then, the patient's fractures can be immobilized using splints or traction to prevent further injury.

Step-by-step explanation:

In this scenario, it is important to prioritize interventions based on the severity of the patient's injuries. The first step would be to ensure that the patient's airway remains open and her breathing is supported. Next, attention should be given to the bleeding from the open humerus fracture by applying direct pressure to control the bleeding. Then, the patient's fractures can be immobilized using splints or traction to prevent further injury.

Due to the patient's signs of internal bleeding (rigid, distended abdomen), it is crucial to manage any potential complications. A large hematoma to her forehead could indicate a traumatic brain injury with bleeding. Immediate transfer to a trauma center is essential to access specialized care.

Overall, it is important to stabilize the patient's condition at the scene, control bleeding, and arrange immediate transportation to a trauma center for definitive medical management.