Initial Management of the Trauma Patient

The many chapters of this book testify to the many facets of critical care. Most are applicable to trauma patients in the intensive care unit (ICU). In contrast, the initial management of the trauma patient requires a different focus and prioritization. This chapter presents common life-threatening problems that face all critical care physicians who care for trauma victims. Trauma patients look different. Most start out younger and healthier than other ICU patients but the severity of many of their injuries mandates expert critical care management. How does initial trauma care differ from other critical care treatment? Time is the key. Many of the more common traumatic injuries are rapidly lethal. One’s desire to thoroughly evaluate a trauma patient must therefore be tempered by a need to prioritize within available time. This prioritization, aided by careful planning and a team approach, contributes to patient survival.