Abstract
The goal of care in trauma patients is to reestablish homeostasis, treat morbidity, prevent complications and mortality, and functionally rehabilitate this subset of patients. To achieve this goal, the intensivist utilizes and coordinates a multidisciplinary, evidence-based approach to ensure that resources are effectively and efficiently allocated to the patients that need them. Airway management and breathing are the highest priority when evaluating a trauma patient. The goal is to protect the airway, improve gas exchange, and relieve respiratory distress. Sedation is a useful tool in the ICU setting and increases patient safety and comfort. Critical illness, anxiety, pain, and delirium can result in significant agitation, which may lead to an increased stress response.
Trauma patients are at an increased risk of developing pneumonia because of the need for prolonged mechanical ventilation, increased risk of aspiration, lung injury, and/or pain. Positioning, oral hygiene, aiding the clearing of secretions, and pain control can drastically reduce the risk. In addition, for those patients requiring prolonged intubation and mechanical ventilation, the implementation of weaning trials is beneficial. Multiple factors increase the risk of developing a deep vein thrombosis (DVT), including hypoperfusion due to blood loss and inadequate resuscitation, tissue injury, immobilization, and inflammation. It is recommended that chemical DVT prophylaxis is started within 72 hours from the time of injury barring any contraindications.