Trauma Practice Questions

Q: A patient presents with a suspected cervical spine injury following an accident. What is the first step in management?

stabilize the cervical spine. ***stabilize the cervical spine*** - In any suspected cervical spine injury, the **first and most critical step is to stabilize the cervical spine** to prevent further neurological damage. This is achieved through manual inline stabilization, followed by a **rigid cervical collar** and placement on a backboard. - This immediate stabilization is paramount before any other assessments or interventions that could potentially worsen the injury. *perform imaging studies* - While imaging studies (e.g., X-ray, CT scan) are crucial for diagnosing the extent of cervical spine injury, they should only be performed **after the spine has been adequately stabilized**. - Performing imaging prior to stabilization risks **further displacement** of vertebrae and spinal cord injury. *administer oxygen* - Administering oxygen is an important step in **maintaining adequate oxygenation** and is part of initial resuscitation, but it does not take priority over cervical spine stabilization in a trauma setting. - **Airway, Breathing, Circulation (ABC)** management should always incorporate cervical spine protection. *log roll the patient* - **Log rolling** is a technique used to move a patient with a suspected spinal injury, but it must be performed **only after the cervical spine is stabilized** and with sufficient personnel to ensure coordinated movement. - Log rolling is not the first step in management; rather, it is a technique for patient assessment and transfer once initial stabilization is achieved.

Q: Haemodynamically unstable patient with blunt trauma to abdomen and suspected liver injury; which of the following is the first investigation performed in the emergency room?

FAST. ***FAST*** - For a **hemodynamically unstable** patient with blunt abdominal trauma, **Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma (FAST)** is the quickest and most appropriate initial investigation to detect **free fluid** (indicating hemorrhage) in the abdomen or pericardium. - Its **rapidity and non-invasiveness** make it ideal for immediate decision-making regarding surgical intervention. *CT Scan* - **CT scans** provide detailed anatomical information but require the patient to be **hemodynamically stable** and are time-consuming for an emergency assessment. - Moving an unstable patient to radiology for a CT scan can significantly **delay definitive treatment**. *Diagnostic peritoneal lavage* - While historically used, **diagnostic peritoneal lavage (DPL)** is an **invasive procedure** that is less commonly performed now due to the availability of FAST. - It has a high rate of **false positives** and potential complications, making it less favorable as a first-line investigation. *Standing X ray Abdomen* - A **standing X-ray of the abdomen** is primarily useful for detecting **free air under the diaphragm** (indicating bowel perforation) or major bony injuries. - It is **poor at detecting free fluid** or organ injury, which is the primary concern in suspected liver trauma in an unstable patient.

Q: A patient in shock comes to you in the trauma ward. You examine him and decide not to give him vasoconstrictors. Which type of shock is your patient having?

Distributive shock. ***Distributive shock*** - Distributive shock, particularly **septic shock**, often presents with **peripheral vasodilation** and a low systemic vascular resistance. - Administering additional **vasoconstrictors** in this context could worsen tissue perfusion if not carefully titrated, as the primary issue is maldistribution of blood flow rather than inadequate vascular tone alone. *Cardiogenic shock* - In **cardiogenic shock**, there is **myocardial dysfunction** leading to decreased cardiac output. - **Vasoconstrictors** may be used cautiously to maintain systemic perfusion pressure and improve coronary perfusion, although inotropes are often prioritized. *Neurogenic shock* - **Neurogenic shock** is a form of distributive shock caused by the **loss of sympathetic tone** due to spinal cord injury, leading to widespread vasodilation [1]. - **Vasoconstrictors** are a primary treatment in neurogenic shock to restore vascular tone and increase blood pressure [1]. *Hemorrhagic shock* - **Hemorrhagic shock** results from **significant blood loss**, leading to decreased circulating volume and reduced cardiac output. - The immediate priority is **fluid resuscitation** and **stopping the bleeding**, but vasoconstrictors are not typically the primary treatment and can worsen perfusion in some vascular beds [1].

Q: The following are indications for performing thoracotomy after blunt injury of the chest, except -

Rib fracture. ***Rib fracture*** - While a **rib fracture** is a common injury in blunt chest trauma, it is generally managed conservatively with pain control and supportive care. - An isolated rib fracture is **not an indication for thoracotomy** unless complicated by significant associated injuries requiring surgical intervention, such as severe lung injury or ongoing hemorrhage. - Management focuses on adequate analgesia, pulmonary hygiene, and prevention of complications like pneumonia. *Continuous bleeding through intercostal tube of more than 200 ml/hour for three or more hours* - This criterion indicates persistent and significant **intrathoracic hemorrhage** that is unlikely to resolve with conservative management alone. - Such ongoing bleeding suggests a major vessel injury (intercostal, internal mammary, or pulmonary vessel) or severe parenchymal tear requiring surgical exploration and repair. - This is a **standard indication for urgent thoracotomy** in blunt chest trauma. *1000 ml drainage after placing intercostal tube* - A large initial drainage of **1000-1500 ml of blood** from a chest tube immediately after insertion signifies massive intrathoracic hemorrhage. - This volume indicates a clinically significant injury, such as a major vessel laceration, hilar injury, or severe lung laceration. - This is a **classic indication for immediate thoracotomy** to identify and control the source of bleeding. *Large air leak suggesting tracheobronchial injury* - A **persistent large air leak** through the chest tube, especially with failure of lung re-expansion, suggests a major bronchial or tracheal injury. - Tracheobronchial injuries occur in severe blunt chest trauma and require surgical repair to prevent complications like pneumomediastinum, persistent pneumothorax, and respiratory compromise. - This is a recognized **indication for thoracotomy** to repair the airway injury and restore pulmonary function.

Q: In trauma transfusion, what is the ratio of RBCs, FFP, and platelets?

1:1:1. ***1:1:1*** - A **1:1:1 ratio** of **Red Blood Cells (RBCs), Fresh Frozen Plasma (FFP), and platelets** is the current recommendation for massive transfusion protocols in trauma. - This ratio aims to mimic whole blood and address the "lethal triad" of acute traumatic coagulopathy: **acidosis, hypothermia, and coagulopathy**. *1:1:3* - This ratio provides proportionally more **platelets** than typically recommended in massive transfusion protocols as compared to FFP and RBCs. - While platelets are crucial for hemostasis, a 1:1:3 ratio might not optimally balance all components for initial trauma resuscitation. *1:1:4* - This ratio implies an even higher proportion of **platelets** relative to RBCs and FFP. - Such a high platelet ratio is generally not the initial target for massive transfusion protocols in trauma, which prioritize balanced component replacement. *1:1:2* - This ratio suggests a slightly higher proportion of **platelets** compared to the standard 1:1:1, but still less than 1:1:3 or 1:1:4. - While closer to the recommended range than other incorrect options, the 1:1:1 ratio is currently considered the ideal balance for comprehensive trauma resuscitation.

Q: In a post-burn patient, which of the following is true?

Hyperkalemic acidosis. ### Hyperkalemic acidosis - **Massive cell destruction** in severe burns leads to the release of intracellular potassium, causing **hyperkalemia** [1]. - **Metabolic acidosis** often results from tissue hypoperfusion, anaerobic metabolism, and accumulation of lactic acid due to shock and organ dysfunction [1]. *Hypokalemic alkalosis* - This condition is characterized by **low potassium levels** and **elevated pH**, which are not typical early responses to severe burns. - Would more likely be seen with significant **gastrointestinal losses** or certain diuretic use. *Hyperkalemic alkalosis* - While hyperkalemia can occur, the burn injury process typically leads to **acidosis** rather than alkalosis due to tissue damage and hypoperfusion. - This combination is generally contradictory as **severe hyperkalemia** is often accompanied by acidosis. *Hypokalemic acidosis* - **Hypokalemia** is not an immediate finding in severe burns; instead, **hyperkalemia** is expected due to cellular lysis. - Although **acidosis** is common, the potassium derangement described here is inconsistent with acute burn pathophysiology.

Q: A head injured patient, who opens eyes to painful stimulus, is confused and localizes to pain. What is the Glasgow coma score?

11. ***11*** - The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) comprises three components: **Eye opening**, Verbal response, and Motor response. - In this case, **eyes opening to pain** scores 2, **confused verbal response** scores 4, and **localizing to pain** scores 5, totaling 2 + 4 + 5 = 11. *9* - A score of 9 would correspond to a lower response in one or more categories, such as **abnormal flexion (decorticate)** as a motor response (3 points) or incomprehensible sounds as verbal response (2 points). - This option does not match the patient's described responses for eye opening (2), verbal (4), and motor (5) components. *7* - A score of 7 indicates a more severe neurological impairment, for instance, no eye opening (1), incomprehensible sounds (2), and **abnormal extension (decerebrate)** as a motor response (2 points). - This GCS score is much lower than what would be calculated from the patient's described responses. *13* - A score of 13 would indicate better neurological function, potentially with spontaneous eye opening (4) or responding with an oriented verbal response (5). - This score suggests less severe injury than the patient's responses of eyes opening to pain (2) and confused verbal response (4).

Q: Which of the following represents a secondary brain injury mechanism?

Inflammatory response. ***Inflammatory response*** - **Inflammatory response** is a classic **secondary brain injury mechanism** that occurs hours to days after initial trauma through delayed activation of **microglia**, **cytokine release**, and **neuroinflammation**. - It represents a **cascade of cellular processes** that develops after the primary injury, causing additional neuronal damage through **blood-brain barrier disruption**, **cerebral edema**, and **cellular apoptosis**. *Immediate axonal shearing* - **Immediate axonal shearing** is a **primary brain injury mechanism** that occurs at the exact moment of trauma due to **rotational and acceleration forces**. - It represents **direct mechanical damage** to axons during impact, not a delayed secondary process that develops after the initial injury. *Contusion at impact site* - **Contusion at impact site** is a **primary brain injury** resulting from **direct mechanical trauma** to brain tissue at the point of impact. - It occurs **immediately upon trauma** through direct tissue damage and hemorrhage, rather than through delayed secondary mechanisms. *Skull fracture* - **Skull fracture** is a **primary injury** that results from **direct mechanical force** applied to the skull during the traumatic event. - It represents **immediate structural damage** occurring at the moment of impact, not a secondary process that develops over time after initial trauma.

Q: The Monro-Kellie doctrine is used in?

Head injury. ***Head injury*** - The **Monro-Kellie doctrine** states that the sum of volumes of brain, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and intracranial blood is constant within the rigid skull. - In **head injury**, any increase in one component (e.g., hematoma, edema) must be compensated by a decrease in another to maintain intracranial pressure (ICP), otherwise, ICP rises, leading to potential herniation. *Cervical injury* - This doctrine applies to the **closed intracranial compartment**, not the spinal canal or cervical spine. - Cervical injuries primarily involve the vertebrae, spinal cord, and surrounding tissues, which do not have the same rigid, fixed-volume characteristics. *Pelvic injury* - The **pelvic cavity** is not a closed, rigid system like the cranium. - It accommodates changes in volume (e.g., from fluid, blood, or organ displacement) without the same direct impact on pressure seen in the skull. *Aortic injury* - **Aortic injuries** concern cardiovascular trauma and blood loss, typically presenting as hypovolemic shock or hemorrhage. - These conditions do not involve the intracranial compartment, and thus, the Monro-Kellie doctrine is irrelevant to their pathophysiology.

Q: An 80 kg male with bilateral upper limb, right lower limb, and perineum burns (3rd degree). What is the amount of fluid required in the first 8 hours?

5920 ml. ***5920 ml*** - Calculate the **Total Body Surface Area (TBSA)** affected: Both upper limbs (9% each = 18%), right lower limb (18%), and perineum (1%). Thus, 18 + 18 + 1 = 37%. - Using the **Parkland formula** (4 mL x weight in kg x TBSA%), the total fluid required in 24 hours is 4 mL x 80 kg x 37% = 11840 mL. Half of this volume is given in the first 8 hours: 11840 mL / 2 = 5920 mL. *3920 ml* - This value would be incorrect for **TBSA calculation** or the application of the Parkland formula. - An accurate calculation of TBSA and fluid volume for the first 8 hours is essential for **burn management**. *4920 ml* - This volume suggests an inaccurate TBSA or a miscalculation in the Parkland formula application. - Failure to administer adequate fluid volume can lead to **hypovolemic shock** in burn patients. *6560 ml* - This volume is significantly higher than required, indicating a potential overestimation of TBSA or an error in the Parkland formula. - Over-resuscitation can lead to complications such as **fluid overload** and **pulmonary edema**.

Question 1

A patient presents with a suspected cervical spine injury following an accident. What is the first step in management?

Accepted Answer

stabilize the cervical spine

Answer

perform imaging studies

Answer

administer oxygen

Answer

log roll the patient

Question 2

Haemodynamically unstable patient with blunt trauma to abdomen and suspected liver injury; which of the following is the first investigation performed in the emergency room?

Accepted Answer

FAST

Answer

CT Scan

Answer

Diagnostic peritoneal lavage

Answer

Standing X ray Abdomen

Question 3

A patient in shock comes to you in the trauma ward. You examine him and decide not to give him vasoconstrictors. Which type of shock is your patient having?

Accepted Answer

Distributive shock

Answer

Cardiogenic shock

Answer

Neurogenic shock

Answer

Hemorrhagic shock

Question 4

The following are indications for performing thoracotomy after blunt injury of the chest, except -

Accepted Answer

Rib fracture

Answer

Continuous bleeding through intercostal tube of more than 200 ml/hour for three or more hours

Answer

1000 ml drainage after placing intercostal tube

Answer

Large air leak suggesting tracheobronchial injury

Question 5

In trauma transfusion, what is the ratio of RBCs, FFP, and platelets?

Accepted Answer

1:1:1

Answer

1:1:3

Answer

1:1:4

Answer

1:1:2

Question 6

In a post-burn patient, which of the following is true?

Accepted Answer

Hyperkalemic acidosis

Answer

Hypokalemic alkalosis

Answer

Hyperkalemic alkalosis

Answer

Hypokalemic acidosis

Question 7

A head injured patient, who opens eyes to painful stimulus, is confused and localizes to pain. What is the Glasgow coma score?

Accepted Answer

11

Answer

9

Answer

7

Answer

13

Question 8

Which of the following represents a secondary brain injury mechanism?

Accepted Answer

Inflammatory response

Answer

Immediate axonal shearing

Answer

Contusion at impact site

Answer

Skull fracture

Question 9

The Monro-Kellie doctrine is used in?

Accepted Answer

Head injury

Answer

Cervical injury

Answer

Pelvic injury

Answer

Aortic injury

Question 10

An 80 kg male with bilateral upper limb, right lower limb, and perineum burns (3rd degree). What is the amount of fluid required in the first 8 hours?

Accepted Answer

5920 ml

Answer

3920 ml

Answer

4920 ml

Answer

6560 ml

Trauma — MCQs

Trauma — MCQs

On this page

Practice by Chapter

Want unlimited practice?