The Use of Thromboelastograpy Guided Transfusion Therapy in Trauma: An Integrative Review

Abstract

<p>Trauma induced mortality can often be attributed to hemorrhage in the early phase of trauma. Up to one-half of trauma deaths are due to uncontrolled bleeding within the first few hours of injury. Patient survival following a traumatic injury is reliant upon the trauma team’s ability to gain early control of bleeding. Ways in which the trauma team can gain control of bleeding include rapid identification of the source of hemorrhage, applying direct pressure to the source of hemorrhage, and aggressive resuscitation. Resuscitation efforts are focused on restoring normal physiology and oxygen delivery to tissues. Resuscitation involves the use of transfusion therapy. </p>