Question

A 25-year-old is brought to the ED after a high-impact road traffic accident. He is hypotensive and tachycardic with a distended abdomen. According to ATLS protocols, which is the next best step in management?

Accepted Answer

Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma (FAST) scan

Answer

Diagnostic peritoneal lavage

Answer

Immediate laparotomy without imaging

Answer

CT scan of the abdomen with contrast

Answer

Pelvic X-ray

Practice question

A 25-year-old is brought to the ED after a high-impact road traffic accident. He is hypotensive and tachycardic with a distended abdomen. According to ATLS protocols, which is the next best step in management?