SAQ Stack

Short Answer Questions for ED Fellowship Study

Case: Pregnant trauma

A 28-year-old female is brought to your Emergency Department with chest and abdominal pain following a high-speed motor vehicle accident. She is 30 weeks pregnant, G1P0, with no other significant past medical history. She has received 500mL 0.9% saline prehospital. Her vitals are :

  • HR 130
  • BP 85/65
  • RR 32
  • Sats 92% 15L/min NRB
  • T 36.1
  • GCS 15

1. List (3) physiological effects of pregnancy on the respiratory system and (3) effects on the cardiovascular system. 6 marks

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Primary survey in this patient reveals reduced breath sounds on the leti associated with subcutaneous emphysema. She has lower abdominal tenderness with a seatbelt sign. There is no pelvic or long bone tenderness. GCS remains 15.

2. Broadly outline your next (6) priorities in managing this patient 6 marks

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3. List, with justification, (2) bedside investigations this patient 2 marks

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4. In addition to abdominal tenderness, list (4) assessment findings that would support a diagnosis of placental abruption in this patient. 4 marks

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This case forms part of a collaborative marking project designed to support fellowship preparation. In the week leading up to each tutorial, you can contribute answers to any active case. If you contribute, your answers may be reviewed, marked, and used to refine the model answers during the weekly fellowship teaching sessions.

All responses are displayed anonymously or using anonymised avatars. You remain in full control of your answers and may withdraw them at any time.

Your personal results and updated model answers become available the day after the tutorial.

After the tutorial you can still do the case and self-mark your answers, but your answers will not be included in the group review.