Guidelines

Make early contact with PIPER for advice from the Paediatric Major Trauma Service & to initiate retrieval.

• Delayed management of the obstructed airway and inadequate fluid resuscitation are two of the most preventable causes of death in paediatric patients.
• The family of an injured child requires appropriate support and explanation.

All penetrating injuries (except isolated superficial limb injuries)

Blunt injuries:

• Serious injury to a single body region such that specialised careor intervention may be required, or such that life, limb or long term quality of life may be at risk.
• Significant Injuries involving more than one body region.

Specific Injuries:

• Limb amputation
• Suspected Spinal Cord Injury
• Burns > 20% BSA or suspected respiratory tract burns
• Serious crush injury
• Major compound fracture or open dislocation
• Fracture to two or more of: femur, tibia, humerus
• Fractured Pelvis
• Spinal Fracture

Make early contact with ARV for advice from the major trauma services and to initiate retrieval.

• Always leave a patient with an established care plan andstrategy for review.
• Escalate or ask for help if concerned about a patient.

Make early contact with ARV for advice from the major trauma services and to initiate retrieval.

• Life threatening injuries identified in the primary survey need to be addressed promptly.
• Thoracic trauma is a common injury in the multi-trauma patient and a significant cause of morbidity and mortality.
• Adequate analgesia is essential to prevent secondary complications from poor lung expansion.

Make early contact with ARV for advice from the major trauma services and to initiate retrieval.

• A patient with a decreased level of consciousness (GCS<8) is unableto protect their airway.
• Prevention of 2^o brain injury is vital in early management.
• Signs of deterioration may indicate impending herniation.