Causes and Prevention of Traumatic Injuries

Did you know that trauma is a major cause of disability in the U.S. and the leading cause of death up to age 45? The most common type is traumatic brain injuries resulting from blunt force trauma.

“Practicing preventive measures is one of the best ways to protect yourself from traumatic injuries,” said Philip S. Vuocolo, MD, MHA, FACS, a board-certified acute care and trauma surgeon at Penn Highlands DuBois who also serves as the Trauma Program Medical Director for Penn Highlands DuBois, and Chief Medical Officer for Penn Highlands Northwest Region.

“It is important to wear proper safety gear, such as rubber-soled boots in icy or snowy weather. Also, everyone is encouraged to follow safety guidelines when they are playing sports, driving or operating machinery.”

What are the most common types of traumatic brain injuries from blunt force trauma?

Falls

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, falls account for more than 3 million visits in the U.S. every year. In addition to traumatic brain injuries, other common injuries from falls include broken bones and hip fractures. Weakness; vitamin deficiencies; balance issues; certain medications; vision issues; improper footwear; and home hazards such as steps, throw rugs and wet floors all increase fall risks.

It is relatively simple to prevent falls by following the suggestions below:

• Eat a healthy diet.
• Exercise to improve your balance and strength.
• Check your vision and hearing regularly.
• Learn about the side effects of any medications you take.
• Get enough sleep.
• Limit alcohol consumption.
• Wear well-fitting footwear.
• Rise from a seated position slowly.
• Use a cane or walker if necessary.
• Remove tripping hazards from your home.
• Install grab bars in the bathroom.
• Install railings on both sides of your stairs.
• Use bright lights in your home.
• Install night lights in bedrooms and hallways.

Motor Vehicle Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that the seat belt use rate in the U.S. was 91.9% in 2023. That means that there are still people driving along highways and riding in cars that are not buckling up. When in a collision, seat belts secure the occupants; they can reduce the risk of fatal injuries by 45% in cars and 60% in trucks. It is very important that children are secured in properly fitting/installed car seats.

Listed below are additional ways to prevent traumatic injuries in a motor vehicle?

• Drive sober.
• Focus on the road and avoid distractions.
• Maintain a safe speed.
• Practice defensive driving.
• Regularly check your vehicle for mechanical issues that could impact safety.

In the event that someone does sustain a fall or is in a vehicular accident with life-threatening injuries, a trauma center offers immediate access to specialized surgeons, advanced medical technology and a dedicated team to handle complex trauma cases. When severely injured people receive care from a trauma center, they have improved survival rates and better long-term outcomes.

“The major difference between a regular hospital and a trauma center is the 24-hour availability of a team of specially trained health care providers with expertise in the care of severely injured patients,” explained Dr. Vuocolo. “A trauma center gives patients with critical injuries the best possible chance of recovery.”

Penn Highlands DuBois is accredited as a Level II Trauma Center by the Pennsylvania Trauma Systems Foundation. It is the only Level II Trauma Center in Northwestern Pennsylvania. To learn more, visit www.phhealthcare.org/trauma.