Clinical Guidelines & Algorithms

TACS Clinical Algorithms are formulated to enable a systematic, organised and prioritised method of managing complex multi-trauma patients. They provide the medical professional with a clear structured, scientifically recognised and proven pathway to enable complex, time-critical decision making.

TACS Guidelines and Protocols are Liverpool Hospital based. Those specific to the management of trauma at Liverpool Hospital can only be reviewed by staff who can access the intranet. For those outside the organisation, they are to be used as educational guides only. Some are NSW State-based and can also be accessed on the internet.

Medical Disclaimer for TACS Liverpool Trauma Management Clinical Algorithms, Policies, Procedures and Guidelines

The following disclaimer is intended to provide important information to readers of trauma management workflows. It is essential to recognize that the information provided in these clinical algorithms, policies, procedures and guidelines (PPGs) are for informational and educational purposes only. Trauma management is a complex and highly specialised field, and the information provided here is not a substitute for medical knowledge, expertise, or professional healthcare guidance.

Medical Disclaimer for TACS Liverpool Trauma Management Clinical Algorithms, Policies, Procedures and Guidelines

These adjoining pages are not intended to replace any existing hospital policies, procedures or guidelines, but can act as a supplement to facilitate clinical management of trauma patient at Liverpool Hospital.

  1. Educational Purpose: The trauma management clinical algorithms/PPGs presented here are designed for educational purposes only. They aim to offer general information and guidance regarding the principles and processes involved in managing trauma. They are not a substitute for formal medical training or clinical experience.
  2. Not a Replacement for Medical Expertise: Trauma management is a specialised field that requires a deep understanding of anatomy, physiology, clinical assessment, and treatment modalities. These clinical algorithms/PPGs do not replace the expertise of healthcare professionals, including but not limited to, trauma surgeons, emergency physicians, paramedics, nurses, and other trained medical personnel.
  3. Requirement for ATLS Principles Knowledge: These clinical algorithms/PPGs assume a certain level of knowledge and competency in patient care, particularly in the principles outlined in Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) guidelines. Familiarity with ATLS principles is essential for effective trauma management.
  4. Consultation with Healthcare Professionals: Readers are strongly encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals when dealing with trauma cases. Every trauma situation is unique, and a thorough evaluation by a medical expert is essential to make appropriate clinical decisions.
  5. Competency in Trauma Management: Trauma management assumes a level of competency and experience in the field of trauma care. It is vital that individuals using these clinical algorithms/PPGs possess the necessary skills and training required for trauma assessment and intervention.
  6. Legal Implications: Medical decisions have legal consequences, and following the information on the adjoining pages without the appropriate expertise and training may lead to adverse outcomes and legal liabilities. Always seek guidance from licensed medical practitioners to ensure compliance with legal and ethical standards.
  7. No Medical Advice: The information contained in these clinical algorithms/PPGs should not be considered as medical advice. It does not establish a doctor-patient relationship, and the authors and publishers of these adjoining pages are not responsible for any decisions made based on the information provided herein.
  8. Continuous Learning and Updating: Medical knowledge is continuously evolving. Readers should be aware that the information presented in these adjoining pages may not reflect the latest developments in trauma management. It is essential to stay updated with current medical literature and guidelines.
  9. Emergency Situations: In emergency situations, where immediate medical attention is required, individuals should call emergency services and not solely rely on the information contained in these clinical algorithms/PPGs. Timely intervention by trained professionals is critical in saving lives.
    By accessing and using these trauma management clinical algorithms, policies, procedures or guidelines, readers acknowledge and accept the limitations of this information. They are encouraged to seek advice and guidance from qualified healthcare professionals with expertise in trauma management and ATLS principles. The authors and publishers of these adjoining pages disclaim any responsibility for any adverse consequences resulting from the use or misuse of the information provided herein.
DISCLAIMER

CLINICAL ALGORITHMS

GUIDELINES & PROTOCOLS

Dr Valerie Malka is the Director of the Trauma and Acute Care Surgical Unit at Liverpool Hospital. She was the previous Director of Trauma Services at Westmead Hospital for over a decade. She is an EMST Director and DSTC Instructor with a great passion for trauma and acute care surgery. With special interests in education and quality assurance she has worked extensively in patient safety and the maintenance of ethics in healthcare. Valerie has worked with the International Committee of the Red Cross and the International Rescue Committee and holds a Diploma in International Humanitarian Assistance from Geneva University and a Master’s Degree in International Public Health with a major in Humanitarian Law. She also holds a Master’s degree in Journalism and works freelance writing medical, health and wellbeing articles.