During the exposure portion of the secondary survey, what risk must be prevented and how is it mitigated?

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Multiple Choice

During the exposure portion of the secondary survey, what risk must be prevented and how is it mitigated?

During the exposure portion of the secondary survey, the main risk to prevent is hypothermia. When you remove and inspect clothing to assess injuries, the patient can lose heat rapidly through the skin, wet surfaces, and a cool environment. Hypothermia impairs coagulation, worsens acidosis, and is linked to higher mortality in trauma, so keeping the patient warm is essential. Mitigation centers on preserving body temperature while you perform the exam. Keep the environment warm and dry, expose only as much as needed, and cover the patient with blankets or use warming devices when possible. Use warmed IV fluids if indicated, and promptly re-cover the patient after examining a area. Monitor core temperature and maintain normothermia throughout the assessment.

During the exposure portion of the secondary survey, the main risk to prevent is hypothermia. When you remove and inspect clothing to assess injuries, the patient can lose heat rapidly through the skin, wet surfaces, and a cool environment. Hypothermia impairs coagulation, worsens acidosis, and is linked to higher mortality in trauma, so keeping the patient warm is essential.

Mitigation centers on preserving body temperature while you perform the exam. Keep the environment warm and dry, expose only as much as needed, and cover the patient with blankets or use warming devices when possible. Use warmed IV fluids if indicated, and promptly re-cover the patient after examining a area. Monitor core temperature and maintain normothermia throughout the assessment.

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