Chest trauma

Overview

The poorer outcomes in the elderly trauma population with rib fractures following blunt chest trauma is likely to be multifactorial and related in part to reduced physiological reserve and the contribution of medical comorbidities. They also suffer an increased rate of complications from the injury and hospital admission when compared to a younger cohort. (Witt & Bulger, 2017)

Given the increased susceptibility to complications, the provision of adequate analgesia to allow the patient with rib fractures to maintain an appropriate respiratory tidal volume will prevent atelectasis, pneumonia and other pulmonary complications. (van Zyl et al, 2024)

Description

This resource kit provides healthcare workers with the knowledge to effectively assess and manage the elderly patient with blunt chest trauma.

Learning objectives

• Recognise the risk for significant injury with low velocity trauma in the elderly.
• Assess the impact of co-morbidities and frailty on injury and management options.
• Perform a multi-disciplinary approach to care.
• Understand a patient centred focus with attention to the barriers to effective treatment.

Downloads

Further reading