Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

A key component to check for during the inspection of the abdomen is the presence of bruising and lacerations. These signs can provide critical information about internal injuries that may not be immediately apparent. Bruising may indicate trauma to underlying structures, such as the liver or spleen, especially in cases of blunt abdominal trauma. Lacerations visible on the skin may suggest deeper injuries and the possibility of organ damage or bleeding. This inspection is vital in trauma assessments to quickly identify life-threatening conditions requiring immediate intervention.

While identifying hernias and assessing joint stability are important in a comprehensive physical exam, they are not primary concerns in the initial trauma evaluation of the abdomen. Muscle strength testing typically pertains more to neurological assessments rather than the direct investigation of abdominal injuries. Thus, focusing on bruising and lacerations helps direct further diagnostic and therapeutic efforts to manage potential intra-abdominal injuries effectively.