> Would it be realistic to assume that having a photograph which shows damage to a
> vehicle involved in a RTA (MVA/MVC) conveys more information to hospital staff
> about the forces that acted upon the patient than would normally be gained via a
> verbal description given by the paramedics and technicians? If this assumption
> is reasonable is there any evidence to support it?
Absolutely. As a pre-hospital provider (BASICS Dr) we used to take polaroids
which were shown to A/E staff. Now we use a digital camera which is
downloaded to a PC in A/E and a printout run off in 30 seconds.
Advantages - cost per picture, re-usable film, able to delete picture at scene
if not suitable, keep a copy for our records/teaching.
Disadvantages - intial outlay cost, kit getting better and cheaper by the hour,
can't use a large flashgun at night.
> To save re-inventing the wheel I have a few questions for the list.
>
> 1) Does anyone have any experience of using photography (digital or
> Polaroid) as a means of recording damage to vehicles following an RTA it
> injury to passenger/driver/pedestrian/rider?
See above (also useful for "before" pictures before reducing fractures/closing
gaping wounds etc)
> 2) Are these photographs given to the receiving physicians/surgeons at the
> hospital?
Yep.
> 3) Is there any evidence available that scene photographs in any way
> influence medical staff in their treatment of the trauma patient?
Only personal anecdotes. I get the impression that the staff like to see what
has been going on pre-hospital and feel more involved. Everyone wants to
see the pictures! Rowley may give more feedback from the A/E perspective.
Pictures also available for later management/tertiary care.
> 4) Have any studies been conducted that look at EMT or Paramedic accuracy at
> interpreting the mechanism of injury based solely on looking at photographs
> along with a brief scenario?
Pass.
> I require as much information as possible, particularly from inside the UK, for
> my degree thesis so any input would be invaluable.
Alan Pearce [log in to unmask]
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