Goal

Maintain adequate oxygenation and ventilation, avoid hypotension, trend response to resuscitation.

Vital  signs

Document vital signs frequently (every 15 minutes initially, then every 30–60 minutes once stable for more than 2 hours) on a flow sheet.30

Urine  output

Urine output (UO) is a valuable indicator of adequate resuscitation from hemorrhagic shock.

Laboratory  tests

The utility of laboratory tests in the field setting should not be overlooked for simpler and readily available measurements, like UO. When a portable laboratory device is used, it may be useful to trend the following laboratory test values along with vital signs and UO to obtain a more exact clinical picture.

Note: Neurologic examination and vital signs trends are essential to identifying a deteriorating patient with traumatic brain injury (TBI). Monitoring EtCO2 is critical for patients with severe TBI. Ensure this capability is available.