ENA Abdominal and GI Trauma Flashcards

Abdominal and GI Trauma Key Points

• Intoxicated patients with stab wounds and difficulty breathing may have diaphragmatic rupture, indicated by bowel sounds in the chest and decreased breath sounds.
• The abdominal wall is lined by the parietal peritoneum, which also has important implications for injury assessments.
• Lipase level is the most reliable laboratory test for diagnosing pancreatic injuries compared to amylase or white blood cell counts.
• A flat or concave abdomen can indicate a ruptured diaphragm, emphasizing the need for thorough assessment in trauma cases.
• Fractures of the right eighth rib can potentially injure the liver due to anatomical proximity.
• Computed tomography scans are the preferred diagnostic tests for retroperitoneal injuries.
• The stomach is assessed for injury by noting free air on abdominal radiography.
• Intestinal injuries are more likely to present with fever and elevated white blood cell counts.
• Hypotensive patients with abdominal trauma can benefit from fentanyl for pain control due to its rapid onset.
• Pelvic fractures are commonly associated with bladder injuries, necessitating prompt evaluation.
• Hemodynamically stable patients displaying abdominal and left shoulder pain should undergo serial assessments to monitor changes.
• Tachycardia is a critical sign suggesting abdominal trauma after a motor vehicle crash.
• The small intestine is classified as a hollow organ, an important distinction in assessing organ integrity.
• The abdominal assessment should start with inspection followed by auscultation for best practice.
• Plain abdominal radiography is the standard diagnostic test for identifying foreign bodies.
• In cases of evisceration, covering the area with sterile and saline-soaked pads is crucial to prevent contamination.
• The ureters are the least commonly injured part of the genitourinary tract, requiring focused assessment during trauma evaluations.
• The large intestine is categorized as an intraperitoneal organ, vital for understanding its role in trauma.
• Penetrating injuries present challenges in estimating tissue damage due to the potential for wound tract closure.
• Belted drivers in rear impacts are less likely to sustain abdominal injuries compared to other types of collisions.
• Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of abdominal trauma, highlighting the need for effective prevention strategies.
• Immediate surgical treatment is critical for penile injuries to avoid complications such as urethral stenosis.
• For severe anterior pelvic fractures, urinary catheter insertion should be postponed to prevent further complications.
• A major limitation of focused assessment sonography in trauma is its inability to reliably detect hollow viscus injuries.
• Urethral foreign bodies can lead to abscess formation, thus requiring careful management.
• Right upper quadrant bruising and referred shoulder pain indicate possible liver injuries, necessitating urgent assessment.
• Gastric injuries often require immediate surgical intervention due to the risk of serious complications.
• Periumbilical bruising is indicative of intraperitoneal hemorrhage, serving as a warning sign in trauma assessments.
• The pancreas is the primary solid organ located in the retroperitoneal space, critical for trauma consideration.

Test your knowledge on abdominal and gastrointestinal trauma with these flashcards designed for emergency nursing. Each flashcard presents a clinical scenario requiring critical thinking about potential injuries. Ideal for preparing for exams or enhancing your practical skills.