Paediatric head injury destination — DipIMC MCQ

Correct answer: A — Transport to a paediatric major trauma centre with pre-alert

Transport to a paediatric major trauma centre with pre-alert is the best answer because significant mechanism and neurological symptoms in a child warrant paediatric major trauma assessment. Remain on scene until observations normalise is less appropriate because normalising observations at scene can delay definitive treatment; Delay transport for full wound cleaning is less appropriate because wound toilet should not delay urgent haemorrhage or surgical care. Transport to the nearest hospital without pre-alert and Transport to the nearest minor injury unit are also suboptimal because they move attention away from the key pre-hospital priority.. The key DipIMC principle is to treat immediate reversible threats, communicate clearly and move the patient toward the right definitive care.

Reference: NICE Major Trauma NG39; JRCALC Guidelines