20. Effects of advanced life support versus basic life support on the mortality rates of patients with trauma in prehospital settings: a study protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis

Effects of advanced life support versus basic life support on the mortality rates of patients with trauma in prehospital settings: a study protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis

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Average read time: 30 to 40 minutes

Short Summary of the Article:

The article, “Effects of Advanced Life Support (ALS) versus Basic Life Support (BLS) on Mortality Rates of Trauma Patients in Prehospital Settings”, is a protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis. The study aims to determine whether ALS is more beneficial than BLS for trauma patients in prehospital care. It discusses the potential advantages and disadvantages of both approaches, noting that while ALS might improve survival in some cases, it could also delay definitive care due to increased on-scene time. The article outlines the methods for conducting a systematic review of the current literature to answer this question, focusing on outcomes such as survival to hospital discharge and neurological outcomes. It also addresses concerns about prehospital procedures like intubation and fluid resuscitation, which can have both positive and negative impacts depending on the context.

Learning Outcomes 

Upon completion of this activity, you should have an understanding of:

1. The differences between ALS and BLS in trauma care: Practitioners will learn how ALS and BLS affect prehospital care and patient outcomes.
2. The potential impact of ALS on on-scene time: ALS can sometimes delay transport to the hospital, which may negatively impact trauma patients’ prognosis.
3. The need for careful selection of prehospital interventions: Understanding the controversy surrounding advanced procedures like intubation and fluid resuscitation, which may not always improve outcomes.