Blunt chest trauma

Overview

Chest trauma is the second most common traumatic injury in non-intentional trauma. (Ludwig & Koryllos, 2017) Trauma to the chest is associated with the highest mortality; in some studies, up to 60% depending on the mechanism of injury. (Mumtaz, Zahur, Raza & Mumtaz, 2017) Blunt chest trauma accounts for 90% of thoracic injuries and requires prompt recognition and management to reduce morbidity and mortality. (Ludwig & Koryllos, 2017)

Knowledge of likely sequelae of injury patterns are key factors for assessment, management
and patient survival.

Description

This resource kit provides healthcare workers with the skills and knowledge to effectively assess and manage a patient suffering blunt chest trauma injuries. The scenario encompasses the decision making and procedural skill for insertion of an intercostal catheter to manage a traumatic haemo-pneumothorax.

Learning objectives

• Demonstrate the assessment of a trauma patient with blunt chest injury.
• Recognise and effectively manage a patient with immediately life-threatening blunt chest trauma.

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Further reading