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Introduction

The management of a trauma patient (whether penetrating or blunt trauma) requires a structured approach to ensure timely and effective care.  Trauma can involve a range of injuries from external wounds to internal organ damage and can result in life-threatening conditions.  The Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) protocol provides a standardized framework for the initial assessment and management of trauma patients, emphasizing the need for a primary survey (focused on airway, breathing, circulation, disability, and exposure) followed by a secondary survey (a more detailed evaluation after life-threatening conditions have been addressed).

  • In penetrating trauma (eg, stab or gunshot wounds), rapid assessment of potential organ damage and hemorrhage is crucial.
  • In blunt trauma (eg, motor vehicle collisions or falls), internal injuries may be less obvious but equally dangerous.

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