ACLS and ATLS

Question 1

Glasgow Coma Scale:

Eye opening

Answer 1

Spontaneous = 4
To speech = 3
To pain = 2
None = 1

Question 2

Glasgow Coma Scale:

Verbal response

Answer 2

Oriented = 5
Confused conversation = 4
Inappropriate words = 3
Incomprehensible speech = 2
None = 1

Question 3

Glasgow Coma Scale:

Motor response

Answer 3

Obeys commands = 6
Localizes pain = 5
Withdraws from pain = 4
Abnormal flexion (decorticate) = 3
Abnormal extension (decerebrate) = 2
None (flaccid) = 1

Question 4

Primary survey: the ABCDEs of trauma care

Answer 4

Airway maintenance with cervical spine protection
Breathing and ventilation
Circulation and hemorrhage control
Disability: neurologic status
Exposure / Environmental control: undress the patient but avoid hypothermia

Question 5

Anatomic landmark for needle decompression for tension pneumothorax

Answer 5

2nd intercostal space in the midclavicular line

Question 6

Anatomic landmark for chest tube placement

Answer 6

5th intercostal space, anterior to the midaxillary line (insert in posterior and superior direction)

Question 7

Massive hemothorax – how much blood?

Answer 7

Greater than 1500 mL, or 200mL / hr for 2-4 hours

Almost always requires early thoracotomy.