Early decision making algorithm for management of penetrating thoracic trauma

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* The anterior box is an anatomical region of the anterior chest and abdomen bounded superiorly by clavicles, mid-clavicular lines laterally and the costal margin in the mid-clavicular line inferiorly.

Non cardiac penetrating chest injury guideline

For paediatric patients identified with penetrating thoracic trauma, where cardiac injury is NOT suspected:

• Ensure that an emergency thoracotomy set with appropriately sized instruments is available in the resuscitation room.
• Invoke the Paediatric Massive Blood Loss Protocol.
• Dress the wounds to prevent expansion of traumatic pneumothorax.
• On arrival the patient should be managed in accordance with TEMPO.
• Emergent thoracotomy may be required in the peri-arrest or arrest situation.

→ Section 7.c.i

Paediatric massive blood loss