Download intern mentor- annotated bibliogrpahy

Yae-Eun Chung
Intern Mentor Program GT
Period 5
Annotated Source List
Ahmed N, Vernick J. J. “Management of Liver Trauma in Adults.” J Emerg Trauma Shock.
(2011): 114-119. Print.
The article, “Management of Liver Trauma in Adults” explains how to take care of
patients suffering from liver trauma. In abdominal trauma, the liver is the one of the main
organs most vulnerable to injury. Since many patients come to the trauma department with
liver associated problems, several different technological devices and methods have been
engendered to increase the efficiency of managing liver trauma. Introduction of computed
tomography (CT) scan, enhanced critical care monitoring, ultrasonography, angiography, and
damage control surgery have made a great impact to the management of liver trauma.
Moreover, although these advancements in imaging have played a key role in the
conservative approach, nonoperative management has also been very successful in managing
injuries. For example, nonoperative management is used for penetrating injuries such as stab
wounds as well as blunt injuries. The nonoperative method has an overall survival benefit and
has shown positive results in regards to patients’ mortality rates. On the other hand, operative
intervention is used for unstable patients, usually as a result of a high-velocity gunshot wound.
Effective modes of managing liver injury have changed the way that doctors now handle liver
trauma. Doctors now dictate management on the hemodynamic status, and a CT scan of the
abdomen and pelvis is used for stable patients. Damage control surgery, vascular isolation,
and direct control of bleeding vessels are also preferred methods.
This source highlights operative and non-operative methods for liver trauma care.
This article is very informative and describes in length the different medical procedures that
are effective in treating patients with liver trauma. Further research could be done in depth on
the various technologies utilized in shock trauma. Instead of looking into liver trauma, more
research could be completed on a different type of trauma followed by an analysis of different
technological treatments for that particular trauma. This source was overall very useful, and
the site is trustworthy because the article has been acknowledged by other researchers. The
article is also from a trusted journal so the information is heavily reliable.
Anderson, M.W., and G. A. Watson. “Traumatic Shock: The Fifth Shock.” J Trauma Nurse
1. 20 (2013): 37-43. Print.
In the past, shock has been mostly associated with four different shock patterns, of
which include cardiogenic, obstructive, distributive, and hypovolemic. However, some
trauma practitioners are now viewing traumatic shock as a fifth shock pattern. Researchers
have found that traumatic shock follows a unique pathological pattern that consists of
multiple trauma, blunt trauma, multiple organ dysfunction syndrome, and death. These
different mechanisms of injury lead to different presentations of shock decompensation. Thus,
scientists have concluded that traumatic shock is an inflammatory response driven primarily
by proinflammatory cytokines.
Some parts of this article were difficult to understand because of the medical
terminology. Even after finding the definition to all of the words, some aspects of the article
were still confusing. However, major ideas were understood after finding the definitions. The
article emphasizes shock patterns and the pathological condition of traumatic shock. Mostly,
the article is about the biological background of trauma and how treatment is primarily
supportive in cases of shock trauma patients. With the provided information, research could
be done on novel therapeutics for traumatic shock and connect new treatments with future
patient care. The article was valuable because it gave another idea for a research topic:
therapeutics.
Cardin, Benjamin L. “Shock Trauma Trains Air Force.” Carroll County Times. N.p., 28
Dec. 2006. Web. 23 Oct. 2013. <http://www.carrollcountytimes.com/
community_times/shock-trauma-trains-air-force/article.html>.
The R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center in Baltimore works with the Air Force
to help train military medical personnel. The Shock Trauma Center and the US Air Force
work together through a program called CSTARS, which enables Air Force surgeons, critical
care doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals to learn more skills and interact with
civilian colleagues. The Shock Trauma Center in Baltimore was chosen by the Air Force
because it is the only center that manages a diverse range of patients, from initial trauma to
rehabilitation. The Shock Trauma Center and the Air Force hold similar ideas when
concerned with patient care. A CSTARS training lab emulates real-life military conditions,
consistent of a medical field hospital of 100 degrees. The Air Force medical service sends
about 25 to 32 medical professionals for training at the center, which usually lasts about a
month. Not only does the program benefit the military personnel, but it also benefits the
University of Maryland personnel because they get to collaborate with many skilled military
health care professionals.
The source is very informational and explanatory. This article is particularly
appealing because it discusses a topic of interest. The information about the Air Force is
intriguing, but the explanation about the partnership between Air Force personnel and
University of Maryland personnel is even more compelling. This source could be the basis
for my research. Knowing that there is this kind of program at the University of Maryland,
interviews could be completed with doctors who have participated in CSTARS in order to ask
them questions about the experience. Also, further research could be done on the different
training sessions that the military health professionals experience at the Shock Trauma Center.
Since this program was created to improve patient care and treatment in the military, the
CSTARS program can act as a foundation for more in depth analysis in the future.
Carew, Allison. Personal Interview. 23 Nov. 2013.
Allison first advised to base my research paper on skin grafts and flaps. She said that
the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center admit numerous patients that must go through
skin graft or flap surgery. She explained how a skin graft is a thin piece of skin that is taken
from one healthy part of the body and moved to another place on the body, which has no skin.
The skin does not have a blood supply. She also said that your body will make new blood
vessels that will grow into the graft over time. A flap, she told me, is a piece of tissue or a mix
of these. A flaps has a blood supply (an artery and a vein) with it. Allison told that there are
different types of flap surgergies and that numerous patients are admitted into the hospital
who have to go through a skin graft or receive flap surgery. There were a few patients who
had received skin grafts, and so she proceeded to show me the donor site and recipient site on
the patients.
The interview was very helpful. Allison did a very good job in explaining to me the
basics regarding skin grafts and flaps. She sparked an interest in me to start researching about
skin grafts and flaps. After the interview, I gained a better perspective on the issue and also
was able to learn a lot about the surgery. Moreover, through the interview, I was also given
the chance to meet patients and observe firsthand. Without a doubt, I can use what I saw and
the information from Allison to guide me in my research.
Cocanour Christine, et al. “Cost of a Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia in a Shock Trauma
Intensive Care Unit.” Surgical Infections 6.1 (2005): 65-72. Print.
This article discusses several problems regarding financial complications for shock
trauma patients. Particularly, nosocomial penumonia and ventilator-associated penuemonia
are very costly for patients. Nosocomial pneumonia costs about five thousand dollars per
episode. Researchers in this study gathered data as part of an improvement program in
decreasing ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) admissions. For about a year and a half,
the researchers reviewed the patients’ charts in the Shock Trauma Intensive Care Unit. The
costs were then attained by the hospital’s cost accounting software. Results showed that the
different in cost between patients with VAP and those without was $57,058. The patients with
VAP were also required to stay longer at the hospital, increasing their costs. Moreover,
researchers discovered that the mortality rates between patients with VAP and those without
were not very significant. This study showed that ventilator-associated penuemonia not only
leads to a significant increase in ventilator days and ICU length of stay, but also increases the
amount of money that patients have to pay for hospital costs.
This source is different from many of my other sources. Unlike others, this article
discusses a financial problem that affects shock trauma patients. Further research can be done
on social problems within the trauma center rather than research on a topic related to the
medical procedures. This article introduces a different problem that is present in numerous
hospitals, and it also offers a solution for patients dealing with financial issues. Using this
source as a foundation, a research project could be created that proposes a method that
reduces hospital costs for trauma patients and continues to ensure the highest quality of
service and results. Though the research could be directed towards clinical trials and
scientific hypotheses, it could also potentially focus on social problems that patients undergo.
With increased involvement within the patient community at the shock trauma center,
interviews could be completed regarding how they feel about the high costs and what they
think should be changed or improved at the hospital.
Crandall, Marie, et al. “Trauma Deserts: Distance From a Trauma Center, Transport Times,
and Mortality From Gunshot Wounds in Chicago.” American Journal of Public
Health 103.6 (2013): 1103-09. Print.
In “Trauma Deserts: Distance From a Trauma Center, Transport Times, and Mortality
From Gunshot Wounds in Chicago,” researchers examined whether or not urban patients who
suffer gunshot wounds farther from a trauma center have to endure longer transport times and
therefore have higher mortality rates as compared to patients who are treated earlier (lived
closer). Using the Illinois State Trauma Registry, the study was conducted by calculating the
distances between the nearest trauma center and the patients’ location and by comparing
prehospital transport times. Researchers also calculated the effect of being shot more than
five miles from a trauma center on mortality. Results showed that there are certain areas of
Chicago that seem to have decreased access to immediate care, therefore lowering the
survival rate of patients who suffer from gunshot wounds in those geographic regions.
This article engendered a creative idea for a research project. Since the article states
that there are certain areas of Chicago that have decreased access to a shock trauma center, a
research paper could be written about potential solutions for people who live too far away
from a shock trauma center. A study could be conducted within the community, such as
Ellicott City or Baltimore, and calculations could be performed on the geographical regions
in Maryland that are in need of access to a closer center. In order to help these individuals, a
project could be created on improving trauma systems planning and funding. Overall, the
article was informative. The source is legitimate, since it is from an acknowledged journal, so
the information is heavily reliable.
Deitch, E. A., et al. "Hormonally Active Women Tolerate Shock-Trauma Better Than Do Men:
A Prospective Study of Over 4000 Trauma Patients.” NCBI. New Jersey Medical
School. 2007. Web. 23 Sept. 2013. <http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
17717448>.
The article evaluates whether or not premenopausal women can tolerate shock and
trauma very well, as opposed to men who cannot. In this study, researchers studied all
patients who arrived at the emergency trauma department and analyzed their demographics,
injury severity, blood levels, and lactate levels. Lactate levels were recorded because lactate
was the indicator of inadequate tissue perfusion; the lower the levels of lactate, the more
resistant the patient was to trauma. It was found that the lactate levels were lower in women
than in men, proving the principle that hormonally active women have a better physiological
response to similar degrees of shock and trauma than do their male counterparts. These
gender-based differences should be taken into account in designing studies evaluating the
response to shock trauma.
The language and terms used in the article were hard to understand. Many terms had
to be defined through the use of the Internet or the dictionary. However, after doing so, the
article was much easier to comprehend and understand. Initially, the research project was not
going to done on the effect of shock trauma or trauma treatment on different genders.
However, after reviewing the study, the topic became more stimulating. A research project
could be made based on mortality rates between men and women by observing collective data
from the shock trauma center. Due to the reliability of this source, since it is from the
National Institute of Health website, the information given by the article is trustworthy and
can be used as a reference.
Duane T. M., et al. “Are Trauma Patients Better Off in a Trauma ICU?.” J Emerg Trauma
Shock (2008): 74-77. Print.
This source discusses whether or not trauma patients are better off in a trauma
intensive care unit (ICU) since most trauma patients require specialized care that can only be
provided by specially trained nurses and support staff. In a vast majority of hospitals, the
trauma centers are very busy with severely injured patients. Due to the large number of
patients, there is limited space available in the surgical trauma intensive care unit (STICU),
forcing patients to move from the STICU to other ICUs. Researchers in this article discuss
the solution of sorting critically ill trauma patients into those that absolutely require STICU
expertise and patients of lesser needs and acuity to non STICU units. For the study,
researchers evaluated trauma patients, 16 years or older, admitted directly to the ICU from
the emergency department, immediately after initial operation or at any time during their
hospital course. They discovered that mortality rates were higher under the conditions in
which severe patients suffering life threatening penetrating trauma were admitted in to the
STICU. In the study, a greater number of penetrating trauma patients were taken care of at the
STICU, revealing the fact that these kind of patients require more extensive care as supposed
to other trauma patients. Data also confirmed the fact that patients in the STICU underwent
more operations. The analysis completed by the researchers revealed that the trauma patients
suffering from life threatening complications should be placed in the trauma ICUs. This
select group of people require the help of the highly experienced personnel provided by the
Surgery/Trauma ICU.
This article delves into a question related to the research since it mainly focuses on
the different kinds of problems within the shock trauma department. In a way, the article is
useful because it explains how to start the research. A study could be done by discovering a
problem in the STICU that involves patient mortality rates (such as this study) or some other
significant factor, and creating a solution. Also, since the source itself is very reliable and
respected by other scientists and doctors, the study can be followed by research on how the
highly experienced staff members of the STICU care and provide for the patients.
Observations can be made on the natural environment of the different ICUs as well as a
comparison between the differences in the patient’s satisfaction and health improvement in
the ICUs.
Eastridge, Brian J., et al. “Impact of Joint Theater Trauma System Initiatives on Battlefield
Injury Outcomes.” The American Journal of Surgery (2009): 22-26. Print.
The U.S. military forces developed and implemented the Joint Theater Trauma
System, also known as JTTS, as well as the Joint Theater Trauma Registry (JTTR). Using
civilian trauma systems as models, the military forces created the JTTS and JTTR with the
goal of improving outcomes after battlefield injury. In this study, researchers gathered data on
over two thousand injured patients admitted to U.S. military treatment facilities; they
completed the test within five years. Results showed that compared to civilian trauma
systems, which had an 11.1% rate of penetrating injury, 68.3% of battlefield wounds were by
penetrating mechanism. Within the population of patients with military injuries, 66% of
injuries were combat-related and 21.8% of the patients showed signs of shock. The JTTS
recognized and remedied more than sixty trauma system issues that required research and
alterations in clinical care. Through this study, researchers discovered that JTTS initiatives
improved the overall survival rate of patients suffering from battlefield injuries. The system
set the standard of trauma care for the modern battlefield using contemporary systems-based
methods.
Researching about shock trauma on the battlefield and the different types of
machines/treatments military personnel use is engaging. This article is perfect because it
provides information on a specific system that the U.S. military force utilizes in order to
improve survival rates of patients suffering from battlefield injuries. For my research project,
an analysis could be done on military soldiers who suffer from gunshot wounds and other
trauma injuries, and how the implementation of that process can be improved. Immediate
care is even more crucial in combat situations, so more ideas can be innovated by reading the
article (in relation to battlefield injuries and military care). The article stimulates thoughts and
invigorates continual research on the topic.
Fink, M.P. “Gastrointestinal Mucosal Injury in Experimental Models of Shock, Trauma, and
Sepsis.” PubMed. N.p., May 1991. Web. 28 Oct. 2013. <http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.
gov/pubmed/2026025>.
In this article, researchers conducted a study on the mucosa of the GI tract. The
mucosa of the GI tract is an essential barrier that limits the systematic absorption of luminal
microbes and microbial products. Typically, there are two methods used to assess the GI
mucosal barrier, which includes the assessment of the microbial translocation and the
measurement of mucosal permeability. The results of the study showed that these methods
provide supportive evidence, evidence relating to how the barrier function of the intestinal
mucosa is deranged in animal models of shock, trauma, and sepsis. Though more research
must be conducted, current evidence suggests that mucosal damage in shock, trauma, and
sepsis is an effect of various combinations, such as tissue injury and deficient utilization of
nutritional substrates.
This article was an interesting read. Concentrating on mucosal injury in experimental
model of shock and trauma, the study was, very unique and abstract. However, this might
have been the case because it was hard to understand the medical terms. On the other hand,
the article was fascinating because rather than focusing on the effects of shock trauma on
patients, it fixated the issue on how an injury affects shock and trauma. Past research was
only done on blunt trauma, gunshot wounds, and other traumatic injuries, but this article
delves into other injuries that are indirectly related to shock trauma, which proved to be very
helpful.
Galvagno, S.M., et al. “Helicopter Transport Improves Trauma Patient Survival Compared
to Ground Transport.” Science Daily. N.p., 17 Aug. 2012. Web. 24 Oct. 2013.
<http:/www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/04/120417102048.htm>.
The study performed in the article was related to helicopter transportation. Survival
after trauma has increased in recent years with improvements in emergency medical services
and rapid transportation of trauma patients to advanced centers capable of providing care.
Though the effectiveness of helicopter emergency medical services has been unclear, Dr.
Galvagno proves to show that helicopter transportation is more beneficial than ground
emergency medical services. Dr. Galbagno, staff of the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma
Center at the University of Maryland Medical Center, conducted a comparison of helicopter
and group transport. In his study, over two thousand adult patients participated, of which
about 160,000 patients used ground transportation while 61,000 flew in helicopters. Results
showed that about 12.6 % of patients in helicopters died as compared to 11% of patients
transported through the ground. Dr. Galvagno states that several factors could have changed
the outcomes of the study, including severity, age, vital signs, type of injury, and gender. He
says that the study raises many questions that need to be explored further.
The article raises an important question that researchers are still trying to answer,
which is whether or not helicopter transportation serves to increase survival rates in patients.
Numerous studies have been conducted, all with very inconclusive results, such as the study
done by Dr. Galvagno. Since the topic is a controversial one, research could be performed on
the issue and a solution could be resolved to the problem, even though it may be challenging.
An interesting approach could be taken to the question and a study can be made that is
different, yet relevant, to the issue at hand. The article was a pleasant read, and it had the
perspectives of both sides to the argument (of helicopter transportation) which was very
helpful. This source will definitely be used in relation to the research topic.
Gasparotti, Zoe. Personal Interview. 30 Nov. 2013.
During the interview, I asked Zoe numerous questions about skin grafts and flaps. I
asked her what the different types of flap surgery were and what exactly flap surgery was.
She told me that flap surgery is when a piece of tissue is moved from one area of the body to
another where it is needed. The area of the body from which the tissue is taken is the donor
site. The area of the body receiving the tissue is the recipient site. She also told me about
rotational flap. Rotational flap is a piece of healthy tissue that is turned to a nearby area
where healthy tissue is missing. For example, a plastic surgeon can turn a calf muscle (on the
back of the leg) to cover a wound on the shin (on the front of the leg). She also explained
what a free flap is. A free flap is a piece of healthy tissue with blood vessels is moved from
one area of the body to another area. The blood vessels from the good tissue are sewn to
blood vessels in the area that is missing tissue. For example, the doctors can move a piece of
skin, fat and, muscle from the thigh and connect it to an open wound in the ankle. Breast
reconstruction using tissue from the belly is another example of a few flap, Zoe told me. I
asked her what potential research I could do on skin grafts and flaps. She advised me to base
my research on the different types of dressings used for skin grafts and find out which type of
dressing is the most effective in decreasing healing and time and likelihood of infection.
The interview was very helpful in numerous ways. With my questions, Zoe answered
them using medical terminology that I could understand. She also defined each term that I did
not know. All the information that she provided me with was very thoroughly explained and
will also be very helpful to me in continuing my research further. She laid out all of the basic
details for me so that when I do research, I have a better understanding of what skin grafts
and flaps are. Also, she gave me numerous project ideas and research topic ideas so I will
look into those more specifically as I research as well.
Hardcastle TC. “Pattern, Presentation and Management of Vascular Injuries Due to Pellets
And Rubber Bullets in a Conflict Zone.” J Emerg Trauma Shock (2013): 155-158.
Print.
In the past, most patients who sustained serious arterial injuries did not survive long
enough to reach medical care providers. However, now with the advancement of health
technology and systems, many seriously injured patients arrive at the hospital. A vast
majority of those who arrive are treated and eventually survive, even those suffering from
very serious arterial injuries. This study analyzed the pattern and presentation of injuries from
non-lethal weapons by observing patients with features of vascular injuries (including those
due to pellets and rubber pellets) for a duration of about five months. Researchers found that
contusion was the most common type of injury, and that pellet and rubber bullets can cause
serious life-threatening injuries. They discovered that applied modern trauma vascular
surgery techniques, in addition to traditional procedures such as fasciotomy, could be used to
reduce the amputation or stroke rate and stabilize fractured bones prior to intricate vascular
repair. As of today, temporary external fixation has become well established as a form of
either initial, or even definitive, orthopedic fracture care. These techniques are used as forms
of vascular “damage control.”
The main topic covered in this article is the treatment of trauma injuries, primarily
shot gun wound injuries. The article is thus helpful because it provides a foundation for
potential research, by describing different treatments used for various injuries. An analysis
could be conducted based on modern trauma vascular surgery techniques and contemporary
treatments with traditional procedures such as fasciotomy, which is explained in the article. A
different approach to the research could be creating a project on shot gun wound injuries and
comparing how these injuries are treated in emergency situations (such as on the battlefield or
at a particular site where the incident occurred). Also, the source provides useful information
about technological advancements involved in reducing time treating trauma patients
suffering from gunshot wounds. The source is liable and legitimate because it is from a
trusted scientific journal that has been credited by numerous researchers and doctors alike.
Hess, J. R., and J. B. Holcomb. “Transfusion Practice in Military Trauma.” Transfusion
Medicine 18.3 (2008): 143-50. Print.
On the battlefield, soldiers and other military personnel suffer from severe injuries
and despite rapid transportation to regional trauma centers, they usually arrive in shock. This
journal article explains the process of practicing transfusion to trauma patients in the military.
Using crystalloid fluids in conventional resuscitation to treat causes does not reduce the
harmful effects of the shock and does not prove very effective. In most cases, when
coagulopathy was established, it was difficult to reverse along with an uncontrolled
hemorrhage. However, because most of the military patients met the normal plasma and
platelet transfusion criteria when they were admitted, AB plasma, re cells for resuscitation,
and fresh whole blood was used as a source of platelets. Results showed that this method
improved hemostasis and even improved the survival rates. In conclusion, researchers were
able to discover that component therapy is almost as effective as using fresh whole blood.
Using fresh whole blood in emergency situations such as on the battlefield can be lifesaving.
Therefore, this study proved to be very important to the individuals serving in the military.
This article provides relevant research on improvements relating to how doctors,
surgeons, and nurses treat soldiers in need of emergency care on the battlefield. This article
was very informative and gave sufficient details regarding a different treatment that could be
used to save the lives of military personnel. With abundant information on military healthcare
systems, the article will be used in the research project. The research project will benefit from
this source because the article is so explanatory and descriptive. The article is legitimate
because it is from a scholarly, scientific journal. The information from this article can serve as
a foundation for the research paper and project.
“Injury Prevention.” AMTrauma. N.p., n.d. Web. 10 Nov. 2013.
<http://amtrauma.org/programs/injury-prevenion-programs/index.aspx>.
The American Trauma Society is dedicated to the prevention of trauma and
improvement of trauma care. This site provided information on injury prevention specifically.
There were numerous projects and projects listed on the website in relation to injury
prevention and awareness around the community. This is such a hot topic right now with the
new Maryland law coming into effect October 1st. Shock Trauma has a Trauma Survivors
Network and a Trauma Prevention Program. The Trauma Prevention Program goes out to
high schools and talks about issues like distracted driving, drinking and driving, etc. Also,
there is even an Injury Prevention Committee. Chaired by Kathi Ayers, RN, MSN, NP, the
Injury Prevention Committee (IPC) is a committee of members from ATS dedicated to
development and dissemination of materials and programs designed to prevent traumatic
injury and disseminate scientifically based information on effective injury prevention
programs. One of the committee's responsibilities is to prepare for National Trauma
Awareness Month (NTAM) each May. One of the committee's responsibilities is to prepare
for National Trauma Awareness Month (NTAM) each May as well.
This website was helpful in many different ways. As of right now, I am thinking
about doing a project based on injury prevention. I was going to talk at a meeting at the
University of Maryland Medical Center and even try to make booklets to aid the patients. I
was going to talk to the patients through the booklets, letting them know of the dangers of
drinking and driving and being involved in violent activities. Therefore, this resource will
definitely be a great help throughout my research because it provides a diverse range of
information on different awareness programs and project ideas.
KG, Kanz, and Linsenmaier U. "Priority-oriented Shock Trauma Room Management with the
Integration of Multiple-View Spiral Computed Tomography.” NCBI. N.p., n.d. Web.
21 Sept. 2013. <http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15452654>.
In emergency situations, it is imperative to immediately recognize and treat trauma
patients suffering from life-threatening problems or conditions. Time is of the matter to
trauma patients. This source discusses a method called multidetector computed tomography
(MDCT), which reduces the amount of time and increases organization in the process of
diagnosing patients, planning surgical interventions and intensive care, and sorting victims to
determine medical priority. MDCT, also referred to as multislice computed tomography
(MSCT), reduces the duration of scanning time, justifying its beneficial use as an additional
solution for primary trauma survey and initial resuscitation. Research was conducted on 125
major trauma patients in order to determine the rate of time-efficiency of the MDCT.
Fathering data from the trauma registry and the picture archiving and communication system
(PACS), researchers were able to calculate the amount of time spent admitting patients to the
trauma room to completing a head CT scan. Data revealed that the use of MDCT scanners in
the primary trauma survey produces a refined, highly standardized image within a short time
frame, ultimately decreasing the likelihood of the patient experiencing complications later on.
When dealing with multiple casualties, MDCT quickly identifies injuries to the heart, lungs,
vessels, liver, spleen, kidneys or other internal organs in cases of trauma.
This source is very helpful because it describes the different types of shock trauma
treatments utilized in the hospitals. It establishes a foundation for my research by providing
me with a broader research topic, shock trauma treatments. Since this source discusses a
specific technological advancement in the field of health care systems, it gives me an idea
about a potential project, such as experimenting with different technological uses to reduce
time constraints and increase efficiency within the workplace. The source, itself, is very
reliable and legitimate. The article is from a trusted organization, the National Institute of
Health, and has been accredited for its validity and resourcefulness within the sciences.
Though the explanation about how the MDCT worked was confusing, enough information
could be extrapolated to aid in the research project.
Lee, R. C., D. Zhang, and J. Hannig. “Biophysical Injury Mechanisms in Electrical Shock
Trauma.” PubMed. N.p., 2000. Web. 23 Oct. 2013. <http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
pubmed/11701521>.
Lee’s article is directed towards electrical shock trauma. The article explains how
electrical shock trauma produces complex patterns of injury due to the varying frequencies of
tissue interactions. Through extensive research, biomedical engineers have discovered the
underlying biophysical injury mechanisms in electrical shock trauma. Along with thermal
burns, researchers have found that permeabilization of cell membranes and direct
electroconformational denaturization of macromolecules also damage tissues. The article
summarized the physics of tissue injury caused by radio frequency and microwave radiation.
This article was different compared to the other sources. Rather than focusing on
problems and treatments within shock trauma, the article provided a biomedical explanation
for shock trauma injuries. The source gave a new perspective on research, and also provided a
different way of approaching the research topic. The article was useful because it was very
descriptive, detailing the biological physics underlying different processes. This source is
justifiable because it is from a trusted website, so it will serve as a guide to the research at
hand.
Levitt, Ellen Beth. “University of Maryland Surgeons Evaluate Treatment Options for
Traumatic Aortic Injury, Including Minimally Invasive Technique.” New England
Journal of Medicine (2008): 5-6. Print.
This source talks about a treatment for a specific traumatic injury. Surgeons at the
University of Maryland Medical Center have assessed various treatments for a type of
traumatic aortic injury. This new treatment allows the surgeons to fix the artery without
making an incision into the body. The treatment for blunt aortic injury has improved
significantly in such a way that has made it more widely used throughout many hospitals. The
treatment allows surgeons to put a small tube called an endograft into the aorta without
having to create a deep incision. This new technique decreases the likelihood of other medical
complications and increases the survival rate of the patients. Traditionally, patients would
have to undergo open surgery, which puts them at a very high risk; however, the invasive
treatment provides the patient with an innocuous option that will increase their chances of
living. There are many other benefits to the procedure, such as less blood loss, less operating
time, and a faster recovery period. It is, essentially, a remodeled and refined amelioration of
the old, inefficient procedure.
Like some of my other sources, this article discusses shock trauma treatment. The
research on shock trauma treatment, and this article provides problems and solutions in
regards to trauma care that can be used in the research paper. This source helps focus all
potential research ideas and thoughts on a specific traumatic injury, such as traumatic aortic
injury. However, other than providing another potential research topic, the source was not
very useful. Numerous medical terms were used that had to be define through the Internet,
and the article focuses too much on the details rather than discussing the problem and
solution as a whole.
Oren, Laura. “Exploring Career Options: Emergency Medicine.” Cogito. N.p., 31 Aug. 2000.
Web. 18 Oct. 2013. <http://cogito.cty.jhu.edu/135/exporing-career-optionsemergency-medicine>.
This article describes the life of a trauma surgeon. Dr. Edward E. Cornwell III is the
Chief of Adult Trauma Services at the Johns Hopkins Hospital. His unit, which is part of the
Emergency Department and classified as a Level-1 Trauma Center, is a center that provides
24-hour care to severely injured patients. Thousands of people, including teenagers with
gunshot wounds and adults involved in gang violence, are admitted into the center. Dr.
Cornwell oversees the center’s activities and mentors surgical residents. Through an interview,
Dr. Cornwell states how he completed his general surgical residency at Los Angeles
County/Southern California Medical Center and later on gained rich experience in trauma
surgery. With years of dealing with emergency trauma patients and managing different phases
of post-op recovery, he decided to continue his training in trauma and critical care. The
different kinds of injuries that he treats at the Trauma Center include blunt trauma, auto
crashes, falls, and assaults. However, people with all sorts of injuries come to the Trauma
Center in seek of medical support. The Trauma Admitting Unit is a unit that admits and
observes trauma patients, whose need for an operation is not clear. When operating on
gunshot wound patients, surgeons repair damaged structures rather than retrieve bullets. The
Trauma Admitting Unit also allows the doctors to observe the ER over a long span of time.
This article was enjoyable to read. It was essentially an interview with a trauma
surgeon, and through the interview, I was able to gain insight into the life of a trauma surgeon.
Dr. Cornwell describes how being a shock trauma surgeon requires stamina, compulsiveness,
perseverance, and decisiveness. He has to rush into the ER and be prepared to save lives right
on the spot. The job is very quick on the feet and fast. The article will be helpful in the
research because it provides an example of a human source. It thoroughly describes what it is
like to work in the shock trauma center, and Dr. Cornwell even describes some of the
difficulties that he faces as a surgeon. The source could be fully incorporated into the research
topic.
Ragaller, Max. “What’s New in Emergencies, Trauma and Shock? Coagulation is in the
Focus!” NCBI. N.p. Jan. 2010. Web. 28 Sept. 2013. <http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
pmc/articles/PMC2823136>.
This source discussed recent discoveries pertaining to the process of recovering from
shock. In an experiment in 2010, researchers studied rats to se how females and males fared
after suffering a trauma and hemorrhagic shock. While they knew that females would fare
better, they wanted to understand why this occurred. Thus, the scientists gave the rats
increased doses of estrogen in order. They found that the estrogen prevented rats from
recovering from shock. Their conclusion was that estrogen receptors are a key component for
shock recovery and allow females to recover quicker than males.
This source was short, but provided another look at recent projects dealing with shock.
Overall, it was useful because it explored similar ideas related to the research topic. However,
the information was not very informative and did not reflect extensive work or research. A
large portion of the source was not very interesting and lacked abundant information that
could be used in the research.
Rose, Melanie K., et al. “Is Helicopter Evacuation Effective in Rural Trauma Transport?”
American Surgeon 78.7 (2012): 794-97. Print.
This article discusses a problem with transportation for trauma patients. Helicopter
transport for trauma remains to be a very controversial topic because research and other
various studies on the matter do not provide sufficient evidence as to whether or not
helicopter transportation improves the survival rate in patients. This study focused on rural
trauma helicopter transport and its effect on patient survival. Researchers compared the
results of using rural helicopters and ground ambulances as modes of transportation for
trauma patients to an urban Level I trauma center. Over one thousand five hundred rural
trauma patients were transported by ground ambulance and one thousand patients were
transported by helicopter. The results showed that helicopter transport does not seem to
improve survival in severely injured patients but is only associated with shorter travel
distances in less severely injured patients in rural areas. However, researchers in this study
recommend further study on the issue.
Helicopter transportation is a very crucial issue in the field of shock trauma.
Numerous doctors and researchers have been arguing about whether or not helicopter
transportation is beneficial. Some argue that the prices are too high and helicopters don’t
increase survival rates in patients. Others contend that helicopter transportation provides a
faster means of arriving to the hospital, so it is worth the cost and payment. Since this topic is
controversial, the article can be used in the research by engendering a project based on the
advantages and disadvantages of helicopter transportation. Interviews could be conducted
with patients and shock trauma doctors at the hospital, and surveys could be completed with
the patients in order to gather data from a population. Statistics and numbers are important as
well, so all of the data can be used to produce a presentation on the issue.
Sallee, D. R., J. W. Love, and L.E. Welling. “The United States Marine Corps Shock
Trauma Platoon: The Modern Battlefield’s Emergency Room.” NCBI. N.p., 2008.
Web. 14 Sept 2013. <http://www.ncbi.nih.gov/pubmed/18189183>.
A unique advancement is discussed in this particular article. The Shock Trauma
Platoon (STP) is a small-scale locomotive that serves as a medical unit for United States
Marine Corps combat operations. In this study, one of the STPs was deployed in Iraq, in
order to evaluate its efficiency and adeptness. Spanning from February of 2004 to September
of 2004, “STP 2” was the only STP that remained mobile during its deployment in Iraq.
Patient care statistics were recorded as perspective data. Results showed that about180
individuals were admitted to the STP, with most of them suffering from combat-related
injuries. Of these patients, 97.9% survived. The concluding data showed that small
specialized medical units are fit to be provided as effective emergency centers. Like the STP,
other mobile units could help save soldiers’ lives in an environment such as a battlefield.
The topic covered in this article is of particular interest to me. Though shock trauma
is interesting, so is the military. The article discusses a solution to a means of an innovative
means of providing for injured soldiers. A research project could be created based on
improving medical conditions, particularly in shock trauma, to help groups such as the
Marine Corps. The source is also very reliable because it was published in a trusted site,
supported by the National Institute of Health. Though the STP is still being tested and
modified, patients could be observed, who come into the center with gunshot wounds. Then a
solution could be created to make the process faster and easier for individuals on the
battlefield.
“Shirette Smith.” UMMC. N.p., 2011. Web. 24 Oct. 2013. <http://umm.edu/programs/
shock_trauma/health/patient-stories/shirette-smith>.
The article talks about a type of treatment for shock trauma, which is the hyperbaric
chamber. The hyperbaric chamber can treat up to twenty four patients in one and a half hours.
Shock Trauma’s chamber is especially the largest in the country. The article discusses a
particular story behind the hyperbaric chamber. There was a mother whose name was Shirelle
Smith. She couldn’t remember where she had put her baby, and when she finally found her,
Smith quickly dialed 911. The paramedics arrived and took them to the hospital, where a
blood test confirmed exposure to carbon monoxide. Shirelle and her baby underwent
hyperbaric oxygen therapy, during which they both received pure oxygen from the chamber
under an environment of increased atmospheric pressure. The hyperbaric chamber is
primarily used for carbon monoxide poisoning, smoke inhalation, driving accidents, and
crush injuries. The chamber also treats patients with wounds that are not healing properly,
burns, and other injuries related to radiation therapy. Shirelle and her baby were treated in the
chamber to prevent future problems because research has shown that people exposed to
carbon monoxide can develop neurological side effects later on. Today, both Shirelle and her
baby are healthy and do not suffer from any psychological or physical symptoms from being
exposed to carbon monoxide, all thanks to the help of medical staff and the hyperbaric
chamber.
This article was very interesting. The hyperbaric chamber at the University of
Maryland Medical Center is known to be one of the largest in the country, being able to treat
a large number of patients simultaneously. The article was compelling, with the addition of
the story about Shirelle and her baby, and so the article was a pleasant read. This article is
relevant to the topic, which is shock trauma treatment, so information from this rouce could
be included in the research and project. A study can be made that questions how it treats
people with gunshot wounds or other severe injuries from motor vehicle accidents. There was
a lot of new, helpful information pertaining to the research topic as well.
Shorr, R.M., et al. “Blunt Thoracic Trauma. Analysis of 515 Patients.” Annals of Surgery 2.0
(1987): 200-205. Print.
Trauma is one of the top leading causes of death in the country and is the major
injury causing death in people under the age of forty. Of the 10,000 individuals (annually)
who come to the Shock Trauma Center, 25% die as a result of chest trauma. However, blunt
thoracic injuries occur more often than does penetrating shock trauma. Such thoracic injuries
include car accidents, falls, and crash injuries. The Shock Trauma Center of the Maryland
Institute for Emergency Medical Services System serves as a center for a large number of
patients, all whom have a wide range of trauma injuries. The Shock Trauma Center treats and
cares for patients with multi-system injuries, including acutely injured patients and
traumatized patients transferred from other regional trauma centers. A majority of the
individuals arrive on a helicopter but some patients also come via some mode of land
transportation. In this study, researchers observed 515 patients admitted to the MIEMSS
Shock Trauma Center for a duration of about two years. The causes of these injuries included
automobile, pedestrian, and motorcycle incidents, falls, and other miscellaneous happenings.
Some patients admitted had received injuries due to water-skiing accidents, assaults, farm
accidents, and a plane crash. Of the 515 patients, a majority of them were admitted into the
center with stable vital signs. On the other hand, the individuals with blunt chest trauma had a
wide range of various associated injuries. Less than a quarter had isolated thoracic injuries,
while more than 80% had extra-thoracic injuries. These patients also had two or more
systems involved besides the thoracic injuries, which increased the level of risk that these
patients were under.
This article is very useful because it focuses the broad topic of shock trauma to a
particular type of trauma, blunt thoracic trauma. Since I am still thinking about a research
topic, this helps me narrow down my research by providing me with a particular injury. The
source was very descriptive and informative and gave a very good, in depth analysis of blunt
thoracic trauma. However, the source also gave a lot of numbers that did not show much
significance to the topic. It was very statistical and straight forward with the information and
did not center on the specific study itself. Despite these negative factors, the source was
explanatory and insightful in relation to trauma injuries and different trauma patients.
“Skin Grafts.” Trauma. N.p., n.d. Web. 10 Nov. 2013.
<http://trauma.org>.
Trauma.org is an independent, non-profit organization providing global education,
information and communication resources for professionals in trauma. The organization
actually has a diverse range of information on skin grafts and flaps, which is the topic that I
am trying to focus on for my research. It has numerous journals and articles regarding skin
flap surgery including the care agreement, risks, and steps taken to get red for the operation.
Also, the website lists the pre-operative, operative, and post-operative measures taken by
both the patient, doctors, and nurses throughout the process of healing and treatment. The
website also has various articles that describe the minute details, including informed consent,
anesthesia, IVs, pre-operative care, and vital signs.
I think that this website will be a great tool that I will constantly use throughout my
research. The organization provides numerous articles and scholarly journals regarding my
topic of interest and even lists different resources that I can use as well. However, one of the
setbacks of using this website is that sometimes, it does not have articles and other published
journals regarding the specific type of research that I want to find. That is one of the major
disadvantages that I found with this site. However, besides this disadvantage, this resource is
great and I will definitely be using it to aid in my research.
Sloan, Edward P., et al. “Diaspirin Cross-Linked Hemoglobin (DCLHb) in the Treatment
of Severe Traumatic Hemorrhagic Shock. JAMA. N.p., 17 Nov. 1999. Web.
14 Sept. 2013. <http://jama.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?articleid=192107>.
For patients experiencing traumatic hemorrhagic shock, resuscitation with an
oxygen-carrying fluid can be used to reduce morbidity and mortality rates. The main
objective of this study was to determine if diaspirin cross-linked hemoglobin decreases the
devastating effects of hemorrhagic shock on trauma patients. A trial was conducted, spanning
from February 1997 to January 1998, at numerous trauma centers across the country. Of the
112 patients with hemorrhagic shock admitted into the trauma center, 98% were infused with
500 mL of DCLHb. More patients treated with the DCLHb died as compared to the number
of patients who died that were not treated. Other factors may have adversely influenced the
results, but from the data, researchers concluded that DCLHb is not an effective resuscitation
fluid. Hemorrhagic shock is usually the determining cause of death from trauma. Patients
with uncompensated hemorrhagic shock are at the greatest risk of multisystem organ failure
and death. Through this study, researchers were able to discern that slow and delayed
resuscitation might improve outcomes in hemorrhagic shock rather than the use of DCLHb.
This source was helpful in various aspects yet confounding as well. The article
essentially answers a particular question through experimentation. It provides another
potential research topic; however, the topic is not as explanatory or intriguing as those of
other sources. This might also be due to the fact that it was difficult to understand some of the
medical terminology. Even after searching for the medical definitions, some of the material
was still hard to understand. Also, it was stated in the article that several different unknown
factors could have influenced the results, which makes the study only slightly reliable rather
than wholly legitimate. Despite these factors, the study can serve as a guide towards focusing
on shock trauma treatment. An analysis could be performed on a specific treatment problem,
just as the researchers in this article did.
"Smart Patient Care Systems." UMMC. N.p., n.d. Web. 20 Sept. 2013.
<http://umm.edu/programs/shock-trauma/research/smart-patient-care-systems>.
This source describes the specifics of the smart patient care system. The R Adams
Cowley Shock Trauma Center, which is part of the University of Maryland Medical Center,
has partnered with the U.S. Air Force to develop a pulse oximeter into a smart patient care
system. The pulse oximeter is a type of bandage that is placed on the finger or forehead to
measure blood oxygen levels. Usually, all trauma patients admitted into the Shock Trauma
Center have to use the pulse oximeter so that the doctors can collect information. The U.S.
Air Force has been helping to fund this new advancement, as it will also benefit injured
soldiers and/or officers. The smart patient care system identifies patients who need
emergency procedures done, such as heart massages or blood transfusions. It is very much an
improved version of the pulse oximeter, as it alerts medical professionals of emergencies.
Thus, patients’ survival rates are increased because doctors know when and how to proceed
with certain medical procedures. Countless experiments and research have been done to make
the pulse oximeter system smart. Researchers have been testing the smart patient care system
by gathering information about continuous changes and signs from Shock Trauma patients
during the first hour after they are admitted, in order to make the computer software
recognize patterns of information linked to emergencies (breathing problems, heart and shock
problems).
This source is effective in describing the Smart Patient Care Systems. The topic is
of particular interest because information about the military is compelling. It is intriguing
because this article shows how nowadays, people are trying to improve medical conditions
outside the hospital and reaching towards advancing medicine on the battlefield, for inured
soldiers. Numerous individuals who serve in the military are shot or injured during training or
during deployment. With such advancements as the Smart Patient Care Systems, more lives
can be saved through a more efficient means of taking care of patients. The source was
legitimate because it has been credited by numerous doctors and other researchers. This
article will definitely help with the research because research project could be made based
on integrating the military, such as the Air Force, with shock trauma treatment (to try to find a
solution to various problems in military shock trauma care).
Soares, Jeffrey. “Military Partners with Civilians For Trauma Care.” United States Army.
N.p., 14 Aug. 2012. Web. 23 Oct. 2013. <http://www.army.mil/media/260282>.
The University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center in Baltimore has teamed up with
the U.S. military in order to advance the study and treatment of severe traumatic injuries in
military as well as in civilian communities. The partnership has yielded a tremendous amount
of scientific research in clinical care, and civilian sectors have adapted numerous military
techniques and tactics to trauma treatment. For example, helicopter transport was a military
means of evacuating casualties and now, the Shock Trauma Center uses medical concepts that
were originally from combat casualty care. Damage Control Resuscitation originated from
the battlefield, as well as Critical Care Air Transport. Medical items such as shunts and
tourniquets which are normally used on the battlefield are now being used in civilian
hospitals, and a vast number of skilled military doctors are contributing their knowledge to
civilian sectors. The partnership between military and civilian hospitals has led to countless
breakthroughs in the medical field and will continue to do so for many years to come.
The source was instructional as well as educational. The source was very helpful in
many different ways. It will definitely be used as a reference source in the research because it
pertains to research within the military shock trauma field. However, there could have been
more information relating to the relationship between civilian and military medical personnel
and how this particular partnership has led to finer improvements in healthcare systems. The
source is also reliable because it is an article directly from the official site of the United States
Army. Since all of the information is legitimate, the source can be used as a reference to
continue research on shock trauma treatments in the military.
Surg, Can S. “Shock Trauma.” NCBI. N.p., 27 Sept. 1984. Web. 13 Sept. 2013. <http://www.
ncbi.nih.gov/pubmed/6478325>.
There are two categories of problems and issues in trauma care: system and
professional. Systematic issues include hospital care rehabilitation, and prevention, while
professional problems include education, research, economics, and quality. Trauma, a major
health and social issue, is an accident or intentional injury and is the leading cause of death of
people between the ages of 1-38. From the year 1960 to 1978, the mortality rate of 15-24 year
olds had increased by 13% while at the same time, the rate of people of ages 25 to 64 had
declined by 16%. In comparison to countries, such as Britain, Japan, and Sweden, the overall
death rate of American teens and young adults was 50 percent higher and the cost for deaths
disabilities and loss of productivity exceeded the cost of 230 million dollars a day. However,
at least 40 percent of deaths caused by trauma were found to be preventable, if any
prevention programs were more available.
This source was very helpful. It not only gives an informative introduction to shock
trauma, in general, but it also describes specific problems and issues in trauma care. It is
useful because it concentrates on trauma prevention and trauma education, research, and
economics. However, the article does not provide a detailed description of the problems and
issues present in trauma care. It merely states several facts and fails to further explain the
necessity of such research in the field. Since my particular research topic is undecided, this
source supplies some general information about shock trauma patients and how trauma
problems have influenced mortality rates in patients. Also, since prevention trauma programs
are mentioned, I could possibly look into various programs. A program could be created and
implemented in various trauma centers in the region as well.
Tazarourte, K., et al. “Update on Prehospital Emergency Care of Severe Trauma Patients.”
Annales Françaises d'Anesthésie et de Réanimation 32.7-8 (2013): 477-82. Print.
This journal article focuses on therapeutic treatment and prognosis of severe trauma
patients. The healthcare system (trauma center) must be able to provide direct care in the case
of emergency situations and also transport patients as quickly as possible to the part of the
center that will be able to best treat the patient’s condition. Direct admission to a specialized
center reduces the mortality of the most severe trauma patientss. Medical dispatching plays a
major role in determining patient care, and the article particularly discusses how the initial
triage (which is the prioritizing of patients) of severe trauma patients must be improved to
avoid taking patients to hospitals that are not equipped to take care of them. The prehospital
management of severe trauma is a major determinant of prognosis. The initial treatment
justifies the need for specialized prehospital teams. Procedures taken on the scene must be
completed in a prompt fashion, starting from the scene of injury to a specialized center, all
within a short amount of time. The article also emphasizes the importance of prevention and
how trauma centers should adopt a hospital network organization in order to reduce the
number of shock trauma patients admitted into the hospital. Furthermore, researchers are
looking into how helicopters can become more efficient modes of transportation for people in
need of direct admission to a specialized center in a geographical area that is difficult to
access.
The article was beneficial and provided convenient and relevant information. The
article primarily focuses on how various systems in the shock trauma department can be
improved, such as prioritization and transportation. It further emphasizes the importance of
initial treatment, diagnosing the patient, and following corresponding procedures. This article
is of particular aid within the research because it can be used as a reference in relation to
improvements within the center/department, prevention, prognosis, treatment, or
transportation. The article covers a wide range of topics and provides a choice between
numerous options. Also, knowing that it is a reliable source, being that it is from a legitimate
journal, all the information is trustworthy and not biased.
“The Center for Injury Prevention and Policy.” UMMC. N.p., 2011. Web. 26 Oct. 2013
<http://umm.edu/programs/shock-trauma/services/injury-prevention>.
The Center for Injury Prevention and Policy was created in 2011 by the R Adams
Cowley Shock Trauma Center. The Center for Injury Prevention and Policy, also known as
CIPP, consists of a group of people who focuses on observing and gathering data regarding
shock trauma injury trends. The teams then develop prevention education programs for the
State of Maryland with the purpose of spreading awareness. The primary goal of CIPP is to
reduce preventable injuries and violence as well as establish a culture of preventable injuries
for Maryland citizens. Everyone should be protected, and in order to maintain a safe
environment, different measures and efforts must be made to inform Americans about public
health issues. The prevention programs are mostly targeted towards middle and high school
students, high risk adolescents and adults. The prevention staff provides scientific
presentations and participates in committees on distracted driving, violence, injury prevention,
and fall prevention.
The article was legitimate and the information was reliable and helpful. The article is
directly from the University of Maryland Medical Center website, so it is very trustworthy.
The source was helpful because it can be used in the research project. The CIPP can be
incorporated into the project if the project focuses on injury prevention. Like the prevention
staff who actively participates in the community to raise awareness, a similar program based
on the CIPP could be made in order to inform fellow middle and high students about the risks
of driving dangerously, acting violently, and accidentally falling or getting injured. Through
speeches and other creative, fun activities, the research project could be completed on injury
prevention. Therefore, this article was useful because it gave new ideas for the research
proposal.
“Trauma Research.” UMMC. N.p., n.d. Web. 20 Sept. 2013. <http://umm.edu/programs/
shock-trauma/research>.
The main focus of this source is on trauma research at the University of Maryland
Medical Center. The Shock Trauma Center at UMMC strives to provide research programs
that will address fundamental and major issues of injury, prevention, patient care, public
policy, and financing of trauma care and related health care systems. The programs are
directed towards various aspects of research and experimentation, such as rising technologies
and clinical research trials. These trials are primarily centered around various studies on
resuscitation, stabilization, and treatment. Such research is then applied to different medical
initiatives and military action (field testing of clinical technology to improve handling
emergency trauma situations). Furthermore, other areas of research include trauma patient
care, such as observing patients from the prehospital setting to discharge. Researchers are
even experimenting with surgical and nonsurgical techniques for traumatic injury. The Shock
Trauma Center has also created a wide range of projects, related to shock trauma treatment
and improvement of health care systems. For example, working with the Department of
Pathology, the Shock Trauma Center will conduct research projects aimed at reducing the
mortality rate of patients suffering from acute hemorrhage in trauma. The Center will
brainstorm different methods in order to reduce RMC transfusions and control hemorrhage.
Another very interesting new device that is in development is the Statscan Critical Imaging
System. This system can take images of the entire body in 13 seconds, helping trauma
doctors find information about a patient’s injuries in a short amount of time.
This source was of great help because it provides numerous projects that have been
done by other researchers in shock trauma. The reading was insightful, with numerous
examples that could be incorporated into the research. The research project could also be
based on one of the topics covered by UMMC researchers. Without a doubt, this article will
be useful in reviewing other projects completed by different departments and centers.
Voss, Katherine. “Study Discovers Why Female Fare Better Than Males After Traumatic
Injury.” EurekAlert. N.p., 31 August 2010. Web. 24 Sept. 2013. <http://www.
euerekalert.org/pub_releases/2010-08/swh-sdw083110.php>.
This source delved into the topic of coagulation. As stated in the article, coagulation
or uncontrolled blood loss is a common but unresolved issue in many medical fields. The
researchers, in their experiment, sought to find new information on how to treat uncontrolled
bleeding. First they described what coagulation is and how it can be contracted. They
described that most patients were prophylactic or therapeutically on anticoagulants due to
cardiovascular disease. This fact resulted in increased blood loss than there may have been if
the patient was not on medication. They also defined dilution coagulopathy and how it also
increased the blood loss of a patient. They concluded that a necessary tool to help improve
survival rates from blood loss was a rapid diagnostic method or test.
This source was very detailed and specific; however it was hard to understand if one
did not have a background of research pertaining to coagulation. Majority of the terms and
compounds had to be defined through the use of a dictionary or the Internet (properties for
compounds). This source also revealed the limited nature of the field. While the topic is
certainly interesting, it is not as compelling because of the lack of research and findings in the
article. However, the possibility of basing the research on genders is still a possible path or
idea.
WMAR. “Woman Sent to Shock Trauma Following Multi-Vehicle Accident.” ABC News.
N.p., 10 Oct. 2013. Web. 17 Oct. 2013. <http://www.abc2news.com/dpp/news/region/
baltimore_county/woman-sent-to-shock-trauma-following-mult-vehicle-accident>.
This was a specific news article about how a woman was transported to the University
of Maryland R. Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center after undergoing a severe car accident.
She received life threatening injuries after crashing into several other cars near the border of
Baltimore and Carroll counties. She was involved in a three-vehicle car accident, where she
was pinned in her car. When emergency personnel arrived, they had to use the Jaws of Life,
which is a rescue tool that assists vehicle extrication of crash victims. The other two people
who were involved in the car accident were severally injured as well and were sent to the
Emergency Room. However, their injuries were not life-threatening like the women’s. There
were no further details on the incident.
This news article was helpful because it provides a reason to create a research project
based on shock trauma prevention. Numerous patients are admitted into the shock trauma
center due to fatal car accidents or other motor vehicle accidents. People across the country,
and even the nation, suffer from life-threatening injuries due to accidents. A project could be
created that focuses on prevention so that people are more aware of how serious driving
safely is and how important it is that everyone is informed of the potential repercussions of
irresponsible driving. Patients who enter the shock trauma center must be treated immediately
and must be diagnosed properly in order to care for his or her specific needs. Information
about shock trauma should be taught to teenagers and young adults so that they are aware of
the after effects of careless mistakes (falls, accidents, gunshots).