Abdominal Emergency – Trauma

Abdominal Emergency – Trauma

Types

1. Blunt Trauma – results when energy from force to the abdomen is diffused into the cavity (example: vehicular accident, contact sports, falls, physical abuse)
2. Penetrating Trauma – results from many forces (example: gunshot/stab wounds)

Signs and Symptoms

• Gastrointestinal bleeding
• diagnosed through:
• presence of pain
• palpitation
• Endoscopic examination
• Acute bleeding can be life threatening due to underlying gastro-intestinal disease
• Cullen’s Sign – darkened skin around umbilicus
• Anorexia
• Nausea and vomiting
• Weakness
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Weight loss
• Discomfort
• Abdominal pain
• Hematemesis – bright red bloody vomitus
• Hematochezia – bright red or maroon blood passes the rectum
• Melena – black tarry stool

Diagnostics

• Endoscopy – direct visualization
• Barium enema – radiographic procedure
• Angiography
• Radionuclide scanning
• Gastric aspiration
• Blood studies
• Arterial Blood Gas
• Liver function Test

Medical Management

1. Provide adequate oxygenation
2. Monitor vital signs
3. Provide intravenous fluids as prescribed
4. Insert nasogastric tube
5. Consider lavage
6. Prepare for endoscopy