144 / 222
144
EMR
EMT
AEMT
Paramedic
Extended
Patient Assessment – Trauma
Steps
Performed?
Non-Priority Trauma Patients
Yes No
1.
Assess injuries based on chief complaint
Obtain Vital Signs
Provide care based on signs and symptoms
Continue with Detailed Assessment as appropriate
☐
☐
Priority Trauma Patients Rapid Trauma Assessment
1.
Rapidly assess the patient ‘head to toe’ (60-90 seconds total)
HEENT Exam: The head should be examined for signs of abnormality. The ears should be
examined for presence of fluid and foreign bodies. The pupils should be checked for
symmetry and response to light. The nose should be examined for presence of fluid and
patency. Examine the throat for signs of obstruction, redness, and patency. The neck should
be examined for pain, stiffness, or injury. The neck veins should be assessed for signs of
extreme distention. If there is any evidence of neck injury, employ cervical spine
precautions. Assess for any signs of trauma.
☐
☐
2.
Chest and Abdomen
The chest should be examined for signs of visible injury. Assess for breath sounds as well as
chest movement, symmetry, and effort. The chest should be palpated for pain. The abdomen
should be assessed for signs of injury, pain, tenderness, rigidity, and guarding. The pelvis
should be palpated for stability if any history of trauma.
☐
☐
3.
Extremities and Back
The lower as well as the upper extremities should be examined and assessed for presence of
pulses, sensation, and motor function. Note if edematous or signs of poor perfusion exist.
The back should be examined for signs of pain. For patients with possible spinal injury,
assess the back during the log roll procedure.
☐
☐
4.
Neurological Survey
If not already done, a neurological evaluation as well as a history should be obtained. The
pupils should be assessed for equality and reaction to light. The level of consciousness
should be assessed using the AVPU method.
☐
☐
5.
A SAMPLE history should be obtained if possible. This should include:
S – Signs and Symptoms
A – Allergies
M – Medications
P – Past illnesses
L – Last oral intake
E – Events of the injury or illness
☐
☐
6.
Exposure
A thorough exam cannot be accomplished without properly exposing a patient. Make sure to
keep the patient warm in the process of exposure and examination.
☐
☐
7.
Perform a Continuous Reassessment as appropriate to identify change in status.
☐
☐
Patient Assessment – Trauma