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Home » Consumer Information » Trauma

Blunt Trauma

When a body part endures physical trauma caused by impact, injury, or physical attack, it undergoes blunt trauma. Blunt trauma is often followed by other particular types of trauma including concussions, abrasions, lacerations, and bone fractures.

The basis behind a blunt trauma diagnosis is to establish who or what is responsible for the accident, if further injuries are present, and what the connection is with the patient's medical history. This information, which can be collected from family members, friends, or former doctors will help determine the most efficient method of recovery. Using the "SAMPLE" examination process, medical professionals will search for:

  • Signs and symptoms.
  • Allergies.
  • Medication.
  • Past medical records.
  • Last oral intake.
  • Events leading up to the trauma.

During the examination process, body parts like the head or others related to the respiratory system are checked first because they take precedence over other sections. Based on this assessment, any follow-up medical treatment is identified that will minimize further damage stemming from the trauma. Areas of secondary importance, such as the abdomen, should not receive as much attention. For instance, a diagnostic peritoneal lavage can be used to quickly test for the presence of free intra-abdominal fluid. These results will help gauge whether a laparotomy is necessary.

When attempting to administer emergency care to a patient suffering from blunt trauma, first verify that bleeding, internal or spinal cord injury, and respiratory problems are nonexistent. In incidents of car crashes, or other accidents where the victim has experienced accelerated impact, it is probable that the internal organs will receive progressive damage, and bones will fracture. Splints can be used to stabilize fractures, and external hemorrhaging should be monitored. IV therapy is often used in conjunction with other techniques (e.g., securing the airway with a respirator) to keep the patient stabilized.

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