Trauma is a major cause of death and disability.
Road accidents are likely to become the biggest killer of African children between 5 and 15 within the next two years.
By 2030, road accidents will be the fifth leading cause of death in the developing world (ahead of malaria, tuberculosis and HIV).
A good outcome following injury requires a 'chain of survival' with immediate first aid, skilled assessment and resuscitation in the 'golden hour' following injury, followed by further treatment and rehabilitation. Prevention is also vital.
GOALS
- Reduce mortality and disability due to trauma and injury worldwide
- Demonstrate each step in the ‘chain of survival’ following major injury
- Support primary health care workers in treating minor injuries and referring more serious problems
- Raise public awareness of first aid and injury prevention
SOLUTIONS
- Work with an experienced, international author team to develop appropriate, high-quality learning materials for each audience and region
- Gather clinical videos in our target regions (to increase engagement and local relevance)
- Highlight key clinical skills and practical procedures through video demonstration
- Engage with users to shape materials and obtain learner/user feedback
TARGETS
- Develop a resource for doctors, nurses and allied health professionals for Africa, Asia and Europe/America/Australasia, covering Major injuries (including scene safety, airway management, spinal immobilisation, defibrillation, cannulation, fluid and oxygen therapy, trauma & medical emergency skills, advanced trauma – chest, abdominal, head and extremity); and Minor Injuries (such as minor fractures, soft tissue injuries, lacerations, bites)
- Produce a simpler, focused version for community health workers, most of whom work in remote locations, focusing on the first response to major injury and treatment/referral of minor injuries
- Provide education for the wider community on prevention of trauma and first aid
- Assess the impact on knowledge, skills and decision making of health workers; and on patients’ attitudes to injury prevention and skills in first aid
