ATLS - Advanced Trauma Life Support Initial Assessment and Management Questions and Answers

Question 1

During the primary survey of a trauma patient, what is the immediate priority after establishing a patent airway?

Accepted Answer

Assessing for adequate breathing and ventilation.

Answer

Controlling external hemorrhage.

Answer

Performing a rapid neurological assessment.

Answer

Completely exposing the patient to check for injuries.

Question 2

A 25-year-old male arrives after a motorcycle crash. He is agitated, his skin is cool and clammy, heart rate is 130 bpm, and blood pressure is 90/60 mmHg. During the primary survey, which of the following is the MOST appropriate initial step for managing his circulation?

Accepted Answer

Control any obvious external hemorrhage and establish two large-bore IV lines.

Answer

Administer a vasopressor to increase blood pressure.

Answer

Obtain a CT scan to identify the source of bleeding.

Answer

Immediately transfuse two units of O-negative packed red blood cells.

Question 3

Which of the following components is assessed during the 'D' (Disability) part of the ATLS primary survey?

Accepted Answer

Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score.

Answer

The patient's AMPLE history.

Answer

Capillary refill time.

Answer

A detailed sensory and motor examination of the extremities.

Question 4

A trauma patient has been stabilized after the primary survey and initial resuscitation. When does the ATLS protocol indicate the secondary survey should begin?

Accepted Answer

After the primary survey is completed, resuscitation is underway, and vital signs are normalizing.

Answer

Immediately after assessing 'E' for Exposure.

Answer

Once the patient is transferred to the intensive care unit.

Answer

After all imaging studies, including CT scans, have been completed.

Question 5

During the 'E' (Exposure and Environment) phase of the primary survey, what is a critical management principle?

Accepted Answer

Applying warm blankets and external warming devices to prevent hypothermia.

Answer

Leaving clothing in place over injured areas to act as a sterile dressing.

Answer

Performing a log roll to inspect the back before assessing the anterior body.

Answer

Limiting fluid resuscitation to prevent dilutional coagulopathy.

Question 6

A patient with severe facial trauma is making gurgling sounds and has difficulty breathing. According to ATLS guidelines, which of the following is the most appropriate initial maneuver to establish an airway?

Accepted Answer

Suctioning the oropharynx while applying a jaw-thrust maneuver.

Answer

Nasotracheal intubation.

Answer

Immediate surgical cricothyroidotomy.

Answer

Placing an oropharyngeal airway.