Multiple Injury Management

TL;DR

Coordinated care for individuals with multiple injuries.

What is Multiple Injury Management?

Managing multiple injuries requires a systematic and prioritised approach to ensure the most critical conditions are addressed first. The first aider should follow the DRSABCD action plan, which stands for Danger, Response, Send for help, Airway, Breathing, CPR, and Defibrillation. This approach helps to identify and manage life-threatening conditions such as lack of breathing or severe bleeding.

When dealing with multiple casualties or multiple injuries in a single casualty, it is essential to assess the situation quickly and determine which injuries pose the greatest threat to life. For instance, a casualty who is not breathing or has severe, uncontrolled bleeding should be attended to immediately.

The use of triage is important in multiple injury scenarios. Triage involves sorting casualties based on the severity of their injuries and the urgency of their need for medical care. This process ensures that those who need immediate life-saving interventions receive them first. For example, casualties with severe bleeding, open fractures, or chest injuries are prioritised over those with minor cuts or sprains.

The first aider should provide appropriate first aid for each type of injury, such as applying pressure and bandages for bleeding, using splints for fractures, and ensuring clear airways for those with breathing difficulties. Continuous monitoring and reassessment of the casualtie's conditions are crucial, as some injuries may worsen or become apparent over time. Effective communication with emergency services is also key, providing them with detailed information about the number and condition of casualties.

Principles of Multiple Injury Management

• Primary Assessment: Perform a primary survey to identify and treat life-threatening injuries first (DRSABCD).
• Stabilise the Casualty: Immobilise fractures, control bleeding, and treat for shock.
• Secondary Assessment: Conduct a thorough secondary survey to identify and treat additional injuries.
• Prioritise Care: Treat the most severe injuries first, while continuously monitoring the casualty’s condition.

Takeaway to remember

Multiple injury management involves providing first aid to a casualty with more than one injury, which can complicate treatment and prioritisation.

Reference

• First Aid eBook