B9439 - Politrauma

Learning outcomes

understanding and managing polytrauma offers students the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in emergency situations, facilitating an integrated approach that combines primary care strategies with essential practical skills. This prepares students to respond effectively to critical situations, supporting their development as well-rounded professionals capable of addressing both everyday challenges and complex emergencies.

Course contents

Learn hands-on the structured approach (ABCDE) for the rapid and systematic assessment of the trauma patient.

Be able to recognize and classify potentially life-threatening injuries and those requiring timely intervention.

Assess hemodynamic status and identify signs of shock and other complications.

Know and be able to use essential diagnostic tools (e.g., FAST ultrasound, CT scan, X-rays) in the trauma setting.

Correctly interpret radiological findings to guide the subsequent therapeutic pathway.

Deepen knowledge of both non-surgical and surgical management strategies for the trauma patient.

Acquire skills in emergency intervention, from airway management and ventilatory support to hemodynamic stabilization.

Participate in practical simulations and workshops that reproduce traumatic emergency scenarios.

Improve decision-making ability and teamwork in high-pressure environments.

Experience coordinated patient management through interactive and multidisciplinary exercises.

Know the indications and techniques for surgical intervention in severe trauma situations.

Understand the importance of synergy between different medical specialties (surgery, anesthesia, radiology, emergency medicine) and nursing staff.

Be able to communicate effectively within a multidisciplinary team during the trauma management process.

Analyze ethical dilemmas related to the management of traumatic emergencies.

Know the legal regulations and responsibilities related to medical practice in emergency situations.

Encourage the development of a critical approach to the scientific literature in traumatology.

Promote participation in research projects and case presentations to contribute to the updating of clinical practice.

Readings/Bibliography

Textbook of Emergency General Surgery

Editors:

Federico Coccolini

Fausto Catena

https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-3-031-22599-4

Teaching methods

The following teaching methods will be used:

• Lectures

• Practical lessons on mannequins

Assessment methods

Learning will be assessed through an oral examination consisting of a single question related to the topics covered in class, based on a simulated clinical case.

Teaching tools

Slides presented during the lectures will be provided in PDF format, along with PDF articles related to clinical guidelines.

Office hours

See the website of Fausto Catena