Surgery 5008 Clinical Management of the Critically Ill and Injured Patient

Goal

To increase the student's knowledge and skill by participating in the initial assessment, stabilization, surgical intervention, critical care management, ward care and clinic follow-up of the multiply injured trauma patient.

Objectives

At the conclusion of this rotation the student will have:

• Acquired an understanding of the initial assessment, resuscitation and stabilization of a trauma patient;
• Evaluated trauma patients, completed a history and physical, and presented a plan of care to the trauma patient care team;
• Observed and participated as appropriate in the surgical intervention of traumatic injuries;
• Participated as appropriate in clinical procedures in the ICU;
• Acquired an increased understanding of the complexities of trauma care including family support, financial constraints and complex discharge planning, including rehabilitation needs.

Activities

The student will be involved in the care of patients on the Trauma Service. These patients frequently have injuries and functional disruption of multiple organ systems, and therefore offer an opportunity in learning complex trauma and critical care management. Highlighted are neurological, cardiovascular, pulmonary and renal physiology. Students gain extensive experience in care of the critically ill through the frequent use of intercranial pressure monitoring, invasive cardiovascular monitoring and mechanical ventilatory support. Students become versed in the interrelationship of anatomy, pathophysiology, biochemistry, pharmacology and microbiology in the management of trauma and critical care. Selected readings and didactic presentations are also used as teaching methodology. Students participate as active members of the trauma patient care team.