Navigating Trauma Emergencies in General Practice

Trauma is a common emergency in veterinary practice, often requiring rapid stabilization and a systematic approach to triage, diagnosis, and treatment. This lecture outlines the evaluation and management of trauma patients in general practice, including recognition of life-threatening conditions, use of point-of-care diagnostics, and initial therapeutic interventions that can significantly impact patient outcomes.

• 1. ‎Apply a structured approach to the primary survey (ABCs) in trauma patients to identify and manage immediately life-threatening conditions such as pneumothorax, hemoabdomen, or traumatic brain injury.
• 2. Interpret diagnostic findings from point-of-care ultrasound and radiography to guide decision-making in trauma patients, including those with thoracic, abdominal, or spinal injuries.
• 3. Initiate appropriate stabilization and therapeutic interventions, including fluid therapy, analgesia, transfusions, and respiratory support based on the type and severity of trauma.
• 4. Recognize when surgical intervention is urgently required and understand how to prioritize stabilization efforts and facilitate appropriate referrals when needed