PHTLS Kinematics of Trauma

Question 1

According to Newton's first law as it applies to trauma, what happens to an unrestrained occupant when a vehicle suddenly stops?

Accepted Answer

The occupant continues moving at the same speed until acted upon by another force

Answer

The occupant stops simultaneously with the vehicle

Answer

The occupant slows gradually due to friction

Answer

The occupant is pushed backward by the seat

Question 2

The kinetic energy formula used in PHTLS to estimate energy transfer during trauma is:

Accepted Answer

KE = ½ × mass × velocity²

Answer

KE = mass × velocity

Answer

KE = mass × gravity × height

Answer

KE = force × distance

Question 3

In a frontal-impact motor vehicle collision, which injury pattern is associated with an unbelted driver who travels 'up-and-over' the steering wheel?

Accepted Answer

Head, neck, thorax, and face injuries

Answer

Lumbar spine compression and hip fractures

Answer

Posterior rib fractures and renal contusions

Answer

Bilateral femur fractures and knee dislocations

Question 4

Which injury pattern is most characteristic of the 'down-and-under' pathway in a frontal motor vehicle collision?

Accepted Answer

Knee, femur, hip, and posterior acetabulum fractures

Answer

Facial lacerations and basilar skull fracture

Answer

Aortic tears and pulmonary contusions

Answer

Cervical spine hyperextension injuries

Question 5

A patient was a restrained driver in a rear-impact collision. Which injury is most predictable based on kinematics alone?

Accepted Answer

Hyperextension cervical spine injury

Answer

Sternal fracture

Answer

Splenic laceration

Answer

Bilateral pneumothorax

Question 6

What does 'index of suspicion' mean in the context of PHTLS kinematics?

Accepted Answer

Anticipating likely injuries based on the mechanism of injury even before they are confirmed

Answer

The probability that the patient is lying about the mechanism

Answer

A scoring system for scene safety threats

Answer

The likelihood of a secondary explosion at the scene

Question 7

Which type of tissue absorbs the most kinetic energy during blunt trauma, making it most susceptible to injury?

Accepted Answer

High-density tissue such as solid organs and muscle

Answer

Low-density tissue such as lung

Answer

Fatty tissue such as subcutaneous fat

Answer

Hollow viscus with gas such as bowel