ATLS Written Exam Review [100%
Correctly Solved] Graded A+ 2024/2025
Explain the rationale for performing a primary survey in trauma patients and identify the
components involved.
? The primary survey is conducted to quickly assess and address life-threatening conditions.
It includes the A...
ATLS Written Exam Review [100%
Correctly Solved] Graded A+ 2024/2025
Explain the rationale for performing a primary survey in trauma patients and identify the
components involved.
? The primary survey is conducted to quickly assess and address life-threatening conditions.
It includes the ABCDE approach: Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Disability (neurological
status), and Exposure (environmental control).
What immediate actions should be taken for a patient with a suspected airway obstruction?
? Immediate actions include positioning the patient appropriately, performing the Heimlich
maneuver if the obstruction is complete, and preparing for intubation if necessary.
Describe the importance of controlling hemorrhage in a trauma patient and the methods used to
achieve this.
? Controlling hemorrhage is crucial to prevent hypovolemic shock. Methods include
applying direct pressure, using tourniquets for limb injuries, and performing surgical
interventions when necessary.
What are the indications for performing a cricothyrotomy, and how is the procedure carried out?
? Indications for cricothyrotomy include severe airway obstruction that cannot be managed
by intubation. The procedure involves making an incision through the skin over the cricothyroid
membrane and inserting a tube.
1
,Discuss the signs and symptoms that indicate a tension pneumothorax and the immediate
treatment required.
? Signs of tension pneumothorax include respiratory distress, tracheal deviation, and
hypotension. Immediate treatment involves needle decompression followed by chest tube
insertion.
What criteria determine the need for surgical intervention in a trauma patient with abdominal
injuries?
? Criteria include hemodynamic instability, evidence of peritonitis, and findings on imaging
studies indicating free fluid or solid organ injuries.
Explain the differences between blunt and penetrating abdominal trauma in terms of assessment
and management.
? Blunt trauma often requires imaging to identify internal injuries, while penetrating trauma
may need immediate surgical intervention. Management strategies differ based on injury
patterns.
Outline the management steps for a patient with a flail chest and respiratory distress.
? Management includes providing supplemental oxygen, administering analgesia for pain
control, and considering mechanical ventilation if respiratory failure occurs.
What are the potential complications of rib fractures, and how can they be managed?
2
, ? Complications include pneumothorax, hemothorax, and respiratory failure. Management
may involve monitoring for respiratory function, chest tube insertion, and pain control.
Describe the indications for using a pelvic binder in trauma patients and the technique for
application.
? Pelvic binders are indicated for patients with suspected pelvic fractures and hemodynamic
instability. They should be applied around the greater trochanters and tightened to stabilize the
pelvis.
What assessment findings suggest a cervical spine injury in a trauma patient?
? Findings include neck pain, neurological deficits, and altered mental status. Presence of
numbness or weakness in the limbs should raise suspicion of cervical spine involvement.
Discuss the role of FAST (Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma) in trauma
management.
? FAST is used to rapidly assess for free fluid in the abdominal cavity, guiding decisions for
further imaging or surgical intervention based on findings.
Explain the importance of assessing the GCS (Glasgow Coma Scale) in trauma patients.
? The GCS helps evaluate the level of consciousness and neurological function, providing
critical information about the severity of head injuries and guiding treatment decisions.
What are the key differences between adult and pediatric trauma assessments?
3
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