What is a criterion for determining a major trauma victim according to policy 605?

The determination of a major trauma victim is critical for identifying patients who require immediate and specialized medical attention. According to policy 605, one of the significant criteria for classifying a major trauma victim is the presence of two or more proximal long bone fractures.

Proximal long bone fractures are serious injuries because they often indicate a high-energy mechanism of injury and can be associated with other life-threatening conditions such as significant bleeding or injury to vital structures. When a patient presents with multiple fractures in this category, it serves as a strong indication of potential systemic complications, necessitating immediate and often aggressive medical intervention.

In contrast, penetrating injuries to the upper extremities, partial thickness burns greater than 5%, and minor lacerations to the torso, while they may be serious in certain contexts, do not typically meet the criteria set out in policy 605 for determining a major trauma victim. These injuries may not represent the same level of urgency or severity and are less likely to have widespread implications for the patient's overall condition. Thus, the presence of two or more proximal long bone fractures stands out as a clear indicator of major trauma, warranting inclusion in the criteria for urgent medical response.