A 22-year-old male with blunt abdominal trauma presents with a large bruise in the right upper quadrant and rapid pulse; the most appropriate treatment includes:

A 22-year-old male with blunt abdominal trauma presents with a large bruise in the right upper quadrant and rapid pulse; the most appropriate treatment includes:

• A. Preparing for immediate transport
• B. Immediate surgery
• C. Administer antibiotics
• D. Do not transport

Answer: (A)

Recognize signs of possible intra-abdominal injury from blunt trauma and the need for definitive care. A large bruise in the right upper quadrant raises concern for liver injury, and a rapid pulse suggests possible internal bleeding and early shock. In the field, the priority is rapid transport to a trauma center for evaluation and definitive treatment, rather than performing procedures or delaying for tests. You should support the patient’s breathing and circulation (high-flow oxygen, one IV line if available, keep warm, monitor vitals) and transport promptly. Surgery and antibiotics are not decisions made on scene in this scenario; they occur at the hospital after further assessment. Delaying transport would increase risk if internal bleeding is present.

Recognize signs of possible intra-abdominal injury from blunt trauma and the need for definitive care. A large bruise in the right upper quadrant raises concern for liver injury, and a rapid pulse suggests possible internal bleeding and early shock. In the field, the priority is rapid transport to a trauma center for evaluation and definitive treatment, rather than performing procedures or delaying for tests. You should support the patient’s breathing and circulation (high-flow oxygen, one IV line if available, keep warm, monitor vitals) and transport promptly. Surgery and antibiotics are not decisions made on scene in this scenario; they occur at the hospital after further assessment. Delaying transport would increase risk if internal bleeding is present.