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

When vaginal injuries are suspected in a female patient with pelvic fractures, conducting a speculum examination is crucial because it allows for direct visualization of the vaginal canal and the cervix. This examination helps in identifying any lacerations, hematomas, or other injuries that may not be obvious through physical examination alone. Identifying these injuries is essential for determining the appropriate management and for preventing complications such as infection or hemorrhage.

While options like performing a pelvic ultrasound, administering antibiotics, or merely observing for symptoms may seem relevant, they do not directly address the need for immediate assessment of potential vaginal injuries. An ultrasound can help evaluate pelvic organs, but it is not as effective in directly assessing the vaginal canal compared to a speculum examination. Administering antibiotics may be prudent in the context of established injuries or infection, but it does not provide immediate information about the presence and extent of a vaginal injury. Lastly, simply observing for symptoms could lead to delayed diagnosis and management of significant injuries. Therefore, the most appropriate and direct initial approach in this scenario is to perform a speculum examination.