Blunt abdominal trauma with haemodynamic instability — MCCQE Part 1 MCQ

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ModerateTraumaBlunt abdominal trauma with haemodynamic instabilityMCCQE Part 1

A 25-year-old man after MVC is tachycardic (HR 130), hypotensive (BP 80/50), with distended rigid abdomen. GCS 14. Most appropriate initial step?

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Correct answer: C — Start massive transfusion protocol and arrange emergent laparotomy

Haemodynamic instability + peritonitis after blunt abdominal trauma: massive transfusion protocol (1:1:1) and emergent laparotomy. CT requires stability. Crystalloid-based resuscitation supplanted by balanced transfusion.

Reference: ATLS / Trauma Association of Canada