The ATLS Casualty Assessment

• S.A.F.E. Approach
• Quick Look Primary Survey
• Assess Airway:
  • Perform Manual Airway manoeuvre : Head tilt Chin Lift (Jaw Thrust if C-Spine injury suspected).
  • Suction airway if secretions present.
  • Insert Basic Airway Adjunct.
    • Primary choice should be Oro-Pharangeal Airway
  • Reassess Airway
• Assess Breathing: (RISE / FALL)
  • Ventilate with 100% oxygen.
  • Non-rebreather mask if RR > 9 Or < 43 (O2 @ 15L/min)
  • Ventilate with B.M.V. if RR < 8 Or > 44 (O2 @ 15L/min).
  • Reassess Breathing.
• Assess Circulation: Take a Pulse Rate, Estimating Blood Pressure
  • Apply pressure to hemorrhages (Immediately if catastrophic… takes priority over AIRWAY).
  • Applying tourniquet (Immediately if can’t be controlled).
  • Establish IV access.
  • Reassess Circulation.
• Assess Disability (Neurology):
  • Assessing an A.V.P.U.
  • Assessing pupil response.
  • Examine Head.
  • Reassess Disability
• Assess Exposure:
  • Abdomen examination.
  • Pelvis examination.
  • Legs examination.
  • Arms examination.
  • Back examination.
  • Reassess Exposure.