Regardless of the term used, it represents the leading cause of death for people under the age of 44. Every six minutes, an American dies from an injury. Automobile accidents are the leading cause, with alcohol a frequent contributing factor. Other major causes include guns, fire, falls, and drowning. The medical response to trauma often begins with a call to 911, the emergency response phone system.
Paramedics stabilize and transport the victim to the hospital as quickly and safely as possible.
Blood, secretions, false teeth, food, vomit, or other obstructions in the victim's airway must be cleared first. If the patient is not breathing adequately, technicians perform artificial respiration. They then check pulse and blood pressure to see if circulation is adequate. To avoid additional injury on the way to the hospital, paramedics splint or immobilize broken or potentially broken bones. Victims who remain alert can help them by telling them if something hurts.