Types of Acute Trauma
The term Acute Trauma is a colloquialism to describe sudden, severe, or unexpected injury. Usually the injury is not life-threatening, yet it can lead to a major problem such as permanent damage or death. An acute trauma can occur in any part of the body. This may include a broken bone, crush injury, a blow to the head, or even a small knife cut. A large percentage of trauma victims suffer brain injuries, and the brain is susceptible to immediate trauma due to the large mass of the brain and the tightness of its blood vessels.
Once a trauma has occurred, the medical professionals may decide to operate to save the patient. Depending on the severity of the injury, other treatments may be needed, including interventions such as: Arterial Spinal Cord Injection (ESC), immobilization of the limbs, or surgery. However, each case is different, and every patient is different, so it is important to contact an experienced and skilled physician for treatment.
One of the first things the doctor will do is assess the situation. They will perform a physical examination of the injury, including measurements of the bruising, lacerations, and swelling present. They may ask questions about the patient's current state of health, mental status, and any medical history. They will also look at the patient's family medical history and ask about any symptoms they may have had before the accident. They are looking to identify any warning signs of problems that may arise in the future, such as depression, alcohol abuse, or mental illness.
During the assessment, the doctor will begin looking at the aspects of the injury and how it affects the patient's functioning. They will look to see if there is brain bleeding or any signs of aneurysms. If there is a severe blow to the head, there is a possibility of whiplash or even a subconciously acquired injury to the brain. Eye injuries can also result in temporary or permanent damage to the retina. This may affect the patient's vision, causing difficulties with reading or writing.
The doctors may also consider the ability of the patient to move. If the injury affects a major portion of the face, it may be difficult for the patient to open their eyes. They may also have difficulty with movement. There are some types of facial injuries, such as broken cheekbones, that are much more difficult to lift and open, requiring extensive surgery. Other facial injuries, such as broken noses, can easily be fixed with make up.
After assessing the patient, the physician will take a report of the physical findings. They will also review the patient's medical records, looking to find out if there is a history of similar injuries, and if so, how extensive the injury is. The doctor may want to know about the work environment, such as whether the patient has been in contact with substances that could cause brain damage. If there is smoke or fire involved, special considerations must be taken. If the patient is working with small parts, such as screws or nails, they need to be careful. All potentially dangerous materials need to be handled by one person while another is present to ensure the safety of everyone.
Next, the physician will do an evaluation of the patient's mental status, looking to see if there is any history of mental illness. This can also include learning disabilities and personality disorders, such as bi-polar. It can also include alcohol or substance abuse, depression, and other emotional disorders. If there are any underlying conditions, they should be addressed as well. They should also do an assessment of the physical environment, looking to see if there is anything that could be causing the trauma, and if so, how.
Acute Trauma Cleveland can range from minor to severe and can be classified according to its severity. The effects of trauma can differ dramatically between patients. In some cases, the patient may survive, but will be left with serious, permanent disabilities. Others may live only a few weeks and may lose all ability to function normally. This all depends on the severity of the trauma, as well as the response of the patient to treatment.