Abstract
Introduction: Evidence-based recommendations can be made with respect to many aspects of the acute management of the bleeding trauma patient, which when implemented may lead to improved patient outcomes. Methods: The multidisciplinary Task Force for Advanced Bleeding Care in Trauma was formed in 2005 with the aim of developing guidelines for the management of bleeding following severe injury.
Recommendations were formulated using a nominal group process and the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) hierarchy of evidence and were based on a systematic review of published literature. A multidisciplinary approach to the management of the bleeding trauma patient will help create circumstances in which optimal care can be provided.
By their very nature, these guidelines reflect the current state-of-the-art and will need to be updated and revised as important new evidence becomes available.