Is a two-tier trauma team activation system the most effective way to manage trauma in the UK?. (October 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Jenkins, P; Kehoe, A; Smith, JE
• Is Part Of: Trauma. Volume 15:Number 4(2013)
• Page Start: 322
• Page End: 330
• Publication Date: 2013-10
• Subjects: Major trauma -- trauma team activation -- two-tier trauma team; Traumatology -- Periodicals; Disaster medicine -- Periodicals; Wounds and injuries -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; 617.1
• DOI: 10.1177/1460408613488473
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1460-4086

Abstract

This review describes the evidence exploring the use of a two-tier trauma team activation system, reviewing the background, history, data available and potential benefits and downsides. The current evidence suggests that a two-tier system may be a lean, cost-effective system, focussed on patient outcome, which could be implemented throughout the UK. Despite its current use in some hospitals, there is limited data from similar systems supporting this in a UK setting. Specific activation criteria need to be validated to ensure appropriate activation of trauma teams, ensuring optimal patient outcome and ensuring best practice.