Prehospital Trauma Life Support (PHTLS) Practice Test

The reason for avoiding oral intake in a trauma patient primarily revolves around the risk of aspiration, especially if surgical intervention is anticipated. Trauma patients may require emergency surgery to address internal injuries, and having food or fluids in the stomach can complicate the situation. If the patient must undergo general anesthesia, there is a significant risk of aspiration pneumonia if stomach contents are regurgitated. This can lead to serious complications during and after surgery.

In addition to aspiration risk, other factors may also warrant withholding oral intake. For instance, trauma patients may have altered levels of consciousness, making it difficult for them to swallow safely. Keeping the patient NPO (nil per os, or nothing by mouth) ensures that the medical team can manage airway protection and prevent further complications while they assess and prepare for potential interventions. This approach is standard practice in trauma care to safeguard the patient's health and readiness for any necessary procedures.