ATLS Transfer to Definitive Care 2

Question 1

What is the primary responsibility of the referring physician when transferring a trauma patient?

Accepted Answer

Initiating resuscitation and stabilization before and during transfer

Answer

The referring physician must assess, resuscitate, and stabilize the patient to the best of the facility's capability.

Question 2

During interfacility transfer, which monitoring is essential?

Accepted Answer

Continuous pulse oximetry, cardiac monitoring, and blood pressure

Answer

Continuous monitoring is essential during transfer when intervention capability is limited.

Question 3

Which patient should be transferred to a Level I trauma center?

Accepted Answer

GCS 10, hemodynamically unstable, positive FAST

Answer

This patient requires comprehensive surgical capabilities, ICU resources, and specialist availability of a Level I center.

Question 4

The mnemonic for trauma transfer communication is:

Accepted Answer

MIST

Answer

MIST: Mechanism, Injuries, Signs/vital signs, Treatment given.

Question 5

What legal obligation does a receiving hospital with capability have regarding trauma transfers?

Accepted Answer

Must accept if they have capability and capacity (EMTALA)

Answer

Under EMTALA, a hospital with specialized capabilities must accept appropriate transfers when it has capacity.

ATLS - Advanced Trauma Life Support Practice Test