In the described SUV crash, which treatment step is indicated for the conscious passenger with abrasions?

In the described SUV crash, which treatment step is indicated for the conscious passenger with abrasions?

• A. Stabilize the patient on scene and monitor condition
• B. Transport to a trauma center
• C. Apply a tourniquet to the left arm
• D. Administer antibiotics

Answer: (B)

In trauma care, a high-energy mechanism such as an SUV crash raises the likelihood of injuries that aren’t immediately obvious. Even though the passenger is conscious and has only abrasions, the potential for internal injuries, chest or abdominal trauma, or spinal injury means definitive evaluation and treatment at a trauma center is warranted. Transport to a trauma center ensures access to imaging, specialists, and surgical teams that may be needed quickly if hidden injuries are present. Stabilizing on scene and monitoring is important, but it does not replace the need for rapid transport to appropriate care when the mechanism suggests possible serious injury. A tourniquet would be for uncontrolled life-threatening bleeding, which isn’t described here. Antibiotics aren’t routinely given for simple abrasions in the field.

In trauma care, a high-energy mechanism such as an SUV crash raises the likelihood of injuries that aren’t immediately obvious. Even though the passenger is conscious and has only abrasions, the potential for internal injuries, chest or abdominal trauma, or spinal injury means definitive evaluation and treatment at a trauma center is warranted. Transport to a trauma center ensures access to imaging, specialists, and surgical teams that may be needed quickly if hidden injuries are present.

Stabilizing on scene and monitoring is important, but it does not replace the need for rapid transport to appropriate care when the mechanism suggests possible serious injury. A tourniquet would be for uncontrolled life-threatening bleeding, which isn’t described here. Antibiotics aren’t routinely given for simple abrasions in the field.