Development of a major trauma resuscitation chart

This article describes the processes involved in the production of a trauma chart for a busy inner-city Accident and Emergency department. The identification of need for the chart followed by the consultation and pooling of information in this specialist area are described. The justification for the individual components of the chart is dealt with along with a detailed description of the chart and the functions it provides, which include aide-mémoire for attending medical and nursing staff. The process of local consultation prior to the introduction of the chart in the department was an important nursing management stage, and required the cooperation and support of all the nursing staff dealing with the chart in their clinical roles. Liaison with other departments, for example the intensive therapy unit and trauma wards, proved invaluable in this initial assessment stage. Medical staff feedback at this stage was entirely favourable. The incorporation of some minor modifications after this initial clinical trial allowed the full introduction of the chart in its final format. The evaluation of this final phase of the project is described and the introduction of future modifications is anticipated.