KOCHI: Death following trauma is a major social and economical problem worldwide as it is the most common cause of death in the younger age group that is between 15-45years. Many are injured and even permanently disabled which is really daunting. There should be a well structured trauma management system than can help to bring this pandemic under control. Unlike many other killer diseases, a trauma victim cured is cured for life.
Comprehensive Trauma care can be divided into 5 major sectors
1.Implementing strict preventive measures like using helmet and seat belts, avoiding alcohol and drug intoxicated drives, speed controls, obeying lane traffic, following traffic rules and signals, safety measures like air balloons, work site safety gears etc
2.Educating the public about the basics of initial accident/emergency care to be given at the time of occurrence of the mishap
3.Emergency Management of the trauma at the site of the mishap and expedicious transport to a well equipped trauma and emergency care centre
4.Optimal management in the Hospital
5.Post Hospital care and rehabilitation
Our state is way behind compared to other developed countries especially in the second and third sectors. Many of the citizens are totally ignorant of the basic care to be given to a trauma victim. It is really vital to offer timely help to a trauma victim which include bleeding control, body immobilisation, splinting techniques etc. Most of the time,the onlookers are totally ignorant of how to handle a trauma victim and make things more complicated. The delay in transporting the victim to a nearby health care centre causes harmful effects on the victim.Therefore frequent educational cum training sessions on trauma and emergency care are conducted regularly in schools, colleges and various organizations so that every citizen is aware of the basic help that need to be given to the victim once a circumstance arises.
The general presumption to help a trauma victim can entangle them in police cases and legal issues is absolutely wrong. The supreme court on March 4th 2016 has issued strict guidelines to protect the good Samaritans have helped the trauma victims to be treated with respect by the hospital authorities, police and Court. The Law commission of India has observed that 50% of those killed in accidents could have been saved if timely service of a skilled and empowered onlooker was obtained.
Dr Arun Oommen
MBBS, MS ( Gen Surg),
Mch ( Neurosurgery), MRCSEd, MBA Consultant Neurosurgeon, VPS Lakeshore Hospital, Kochi.