Journal of trauma nursing : the official journal of the Society of Trauma Nurses
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Hypothermia is a disorder that causes catastrophic dysfunction in the body's regulation of homeostasis. Trauma patients are at increased risk of hypothermia from both intrinsic and iatrogenic causes. ⋯ Many, but not all, have a role in the resuscitation of hypothermic trauma patients. The appropriate rewarming modality should be chosen based on the patient, hemodynamic stability, and the resources available.
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Acute Extremity Compartment Syndrome is a disorder, which can cause loss of limb if left untreated. Compartment syndrome develops when pressures within the fascial compartments become elevated, resulting in decreased perfusion to muscles and nerves. ⋯ Diligent nursing assessment and monitoring of clinical signs, with communication to the physician, will facilitate rapid treatment by the physician. The primary treatment option is early identification and intervention through performance of a fasciotomy.
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To review the use of ultrasound for assessment of abdominal trauma during the secondary assessment. Three current methods for evaluation of abdominal trauma will be outlined. The use of ultrasound in evaluation of patients with blunt abdominal trauma will be highlighted, including performance of test, time to test completion, strengths, and limitations. The use of serial examination utilizing focused abdominal sonography for blunt trauma (FAST) to evaluate hemoperitoneum will be presented.
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Patients who sustain abdominal trauma become hypermetabolic and require aggressive utilization of early enteral nutrition. The purpose of this article is to discuss the physiology of the gut as it relates to the development of septic sequelae and the role of early enteral nutrition in decreasing septic complications based upon the findings of previously published research. The research clearly supports that there are many benefits associated with the initiation of early enteral nutrition in this patient population.