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Penetrating abdominal trauma — DipIMC MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

ModeratePre-Hospital Trauma ManagementPenetrating abdominal traumaDipIMC

A man has a single upper abdominal stab wound, pulse 128/min and systolic blood pressure 86 mmHg. There is no external bleeding to control. What is the most appropriate transport decision?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: D — Pre-alert and transfer directly to the major trauma centre

Option D is correct because Unstable penetrating torso trauma needs rapid definitive haemorrhage control at a surgical-capable major trauma centre. Option C is less appropriate because the clinical risk exceeds that destination or timeframe; option E is less appropriate because pre-alert is needed to mobilise the correct receiving team. Option B is less appropriate because watchful waiting risks deterioration or delays definitive care; option A is less appropriate because unmonitored private transport is unsafe for this risk profile. Clinical pearl: in DipIMC-style questions, the best answer is the intervention that changes outcome earliest in the pre-hospital phase.

Reference: NICE Major Trauma NG39; JRCALC Guidelines