Chapter·SurgeryATLS protocols

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1

A 34-year-old male is brought to the emergency department by fire and rescue following a motor vehicle accident in which the patient was an unrestrained driver. The paramedics report that the patient was struck from behind by a drunk driver. He was mentating well at the scene but complained of pain in his abdomen. The patient has no known past medical history. In the trauma bay, his temperature is 98.9°F (37.2°C), blood pressure is 86/51 mmHg, pulse is 138/min, and respirations are 18/min. The patient is somnolent but arousable to voice and pain. His lungs are clear to auscultation bilaterally. He is diffusely tender to palpation on abdominal exam with bruising over the left upper abdomen. His distal pulses are thready, and capillary refill is delayed bilaterally. Two large-bore peripheral intravenous lines are placed to bolus him with intravenous 0.9% saline. Chest radiograph shows multiple left lower rib fractures. Which of the following parameters is most likely to be seen in this patient?

AIncreased cardiac output

BIncreased mixed venous oxygen saturation

CDecreased pulmonary capillary wedge pressure

DDecreased systemic vascular resistance

EIncreased right atrial pressure

2

A 27-year-old soldier is brought to the emergency department of a military hospital 20 minutes after being involved in a motor vehicle accident during a training exercise. He was an unrestrained passenger. On arrival, he has shortness of breath and chest pain. He appears pale and anxious. His temperature is 37°C (98.6°F), pulse is 110/min, respirations are 20/min, and blood pressure is 100/65 mm Hg. He is alert and oriented to person, place, and time. Examination shows pale conjunctivae and mucous membranes. There is bruising on the chest, extremities, and abdomen. The lungs are clear to auscultation. He has normal heart sounds and flat neck veins. The abdomen is flat, soft, and mildly tender. The remainder of the physical examination shows no abnormalities. High-flow oxygen is applied, and intravenous fluid resuscitation is begun. A chest x-ray is obtained. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?

APlacement of a chest tube

BPericardiocentesis

CAbdominal ultrasonography

DIntubation with positive pressure ventilation

ECT scan of the chest with contrast

3

A trauma 'huddle' is called. Morphine is administered for pain. Low-flow oxygen is begun. A traumatic diaphragmatic rupture is suspected. Infusion of 0.9% saline is begun. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?

AChest fluoroscopy

BBarium study

CCT of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis

DMRI chest and abdomen

EICU admission and observation

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