BASIC TRAUMA LIFE SUPPORT (BTLS)

Trauma is a common cause of admission to a hospital and is a major cause of premature death and disability. It is the leading cause of death for individuals between the ages of 1 and 44 and is the fourth leading cause overall in the world. In Malaysia, trauma ranks as the third principal cause of hospitalisation and the fourth principal cause of death in the Ministry of Health Hospitals after heart disease, septicaemia, and cerebrovascular accident. Hence, all medical graduates must have trauma life support skills to manage poly-trauma patients presented to the Emergency Department before their graduation.

The Basic Trauma Life Support (BTLS) course at IMU comprises of e-learning materials, audio-visual presentations, hands-on practical stations, and simulated clinical scenarios. The programme teaches students a rapid systematic assessment of a trauma patient’s condition followed by its management. Management priorities and acquisition of skills in initial assessment and management of poly-trauma patients is emphasised throughout the course.

Course Objectives

At the completion of the Basic Trauma Life Support (BTLS) Course at IMU, students should be able to:

• Understand the principles and concepts of Primary and Secondary assessment
• Establish management priorities in managing a poly-trauma patient
• Acquire the skills necessary in the initial assessment and management of trauma patients