traumazorg

Traumazorg is the organized system of medical care for people who have sustained physical injuries. It covers the full care pathway from the moment of injury through prehospital response, hospital treatment, and subsequent rehabilitation. The aim is to reduce both mortality and long-term disability and to optimize functional recovery.

Prehospital traumazorg involves emergency medical services and on-scene assessment. Rapid triage, airway management, hemorrhage control, analgesia, and prompt transport to an appropriate facility are central. In many systems, air medical transport is used for time-critical trauma or remote locations to shorten transit time to definitive care.

In hospital, the emergency department performs a structured primary and secondary survey guided by ATLS principles, with rapid imaging, blood testing, and activation of a trauma team. Treatments may include operative intervention, damage-control resuscitation, and critical care. The aim is to stabilize vital functions and address life-threatening injuries first, followed by definitive care.

Traumazorg is organized around designated trauma centers that provide 24/7 access to imaging, surgical specialties, anesthesia, and intensive care. Multidisciplinary teams work with radiology, rehabilitation, and social services. Modern trauma care emphasizes multidisciplinary decision-making, standardized protocols, and ongoing data collection for quality improvement.

Quality and data systems, such as trauma registries and performance indicators, monitor outcomes, timeliness, and complications to drive improvement. Prevention efforts, including injury prevention programs and public health measures, are integral. Education and guidelines, notably ATLS and regional protocols, support consistent care across the care continuum.