When using the ABCDE approach in a pregnant trauma patient, which modification is appropriate?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: Gurgling over the airway with blood or vomit in the mouth
Pregnant trauma patients require left lateral tilt to prevent aortocaval compression and maintain maternal and fetal perfusion during the primary survey.
Keep practicing
More Rapid Emergency Assessment questions
- How does the nurse identify a flail chest during the primary survey in breathing assessment?
- If a patient has a Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) of 6 during the disability assessment, what should the nurse do next?
- Why is warming the patient important during the Exposure/Environment step in trauma assessment?
- Which of the following patients is not an appropriate candidate for the ABCDE primary survey?
- During the circulation assessment, what sign suggests internal hemorrhage in a trauma patient?
- Why is the ABCDE approach preferred over jumping to diagnostics in emergency care?