Prehospital Trauma Life Support (PHTLS) Practice Test

Open abdominal injuries necessitate immediate surgical intervention due to the high risk of internal organ damage and potential life-threatening complications. An open abdominal injury typically involves a breach in the abdominal wall, which may expose internal organs to contaminants and increase the risk of infection and hemorrhage. When such injuries are present, there is an urgent need to assess and possibly repair any damage to vital structures, control bleeding, and prevent further complications. Timely surgical intervention can significantly improve the chances of survival and recovery for the patient, making it crucial in these scenarios.

Simple fractures, puncture wounds, and soft tissue injuries, while they may require treatment and attention, typically do not demand immediate surgical intervention. These injuries can often be managed through non-surgical means or more delayed surgical repair, depending on their complexity and the condition of the patient.