Hospital and prehospital resources for optimal care of the injured patient. Committee on Trauma of the American College of Surgeons.

This report was prepared by a task force of the Committee on Trauma of the American College of Surgeons. In June of 1986, the Board of Regents of the American College of Surgeons approved this report and authorized its publication as an official College document. It replaces similar documents published in 1976, 1979, and 1983. On the basis of available evidence, a system designed specifically for trauma care would effect a reduction in mortality and morbidity due to trauma. The system must necessarily address the prehospital care rendered to the patient as well as the personnel and resources of the hospital with a specific commitment to trauma care. The Committee on Trauma also considers rehabilitation a critical element for optimal care of the injured patient. It is generally recognized that this document is a set of guidelines representing current thinking for optimal care of the injured. Further revisions may be indicated as systems are developed to meet the complex demands of severely injured patients.