“There are an increasing number of severely injured patients who present to hospital each year. Trauma is the leading cause of death in all ages from 1 to 44 years. Haemorrhagic shock accounts for 80% of deaths in the operating theatre and up to 50% of deaths in the first 24 h after injury. Only 16% of major emergency departments in the UK use a massive haemorrhage guideline [1].
The management of massive haemorrhage is usually only one component of the management of a critically unwell patient. These guidelines are intended to supplement current resuscitation guidelines and are specifically directed at improving management of massive haemorrhage [2]. The guidance is intended to provide a better understanding of the priorities in specific situations. Effective teamwork and communication are an essential part of this process.” (Thomas et al 2010).
Thomas, D., Wee, M., Clyburn, P., Walker, I., Brohi, K., Collins, P., Doughty, H., Isaac, J., Mahoney, P.F. and Shewry, L. (2010) Blood transfusion and the anaesthetist: management of massive haemorrhage. Anaesthesia. 65(11), p.1153–1161.
