simultaneous diagnostic and therapeutic activities intended to identify and treat life and limb-threatening injuries, beginning with the most immediate.
This focus on urgent problems is first captured by the " Golden hour“ catch phrase and is one of the most important lessons of ATLS.
ATLS begins with the ABCDE :
ATLS begins with the ABCDE :
airway, breathing, circulation, disability, and exposure and secondary survey.
adequate open airway and acceptable respiratory mechanics is of primary Importance because hypoxia is the most immediate threat to life.
Trauma patients are at risk for airway obstruction and inadequate respiration for the reasons listed later.
