Memorial Satilla Health - July 01, 2025

2 min Read Time

In emergency and trauma care, every second counts. The Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) program is a crucial system for ensuring trauma patients receive immediate, efficient, and coordinated care. “At Memorial Satilla Health, our trauma team is trained in ATLS, which is designed to guide healthcare professionals in assessing and stabilizing critically injured patients, prioritizing life-saving interventions,” said Dr. David Wykstra, Trauma Program Medical Director. This protocol-based approach saves lives by ensuring rapid and systematic care in trauma situations.

What is ATLS?

ATLS is an evidence-based program developed by the American College of Surgeons that standardizes the approach to trauma care. It provides healthcare providers with the skills and knowledge necessary to assess and manage trauma patients quickly and effectively.

  • Initial Assessment: The ATLS system focuses on a rapid primary survey that addresses the most life-threatening injuries first, such as airway obstruction, breathing problems, and circulatory issues. This method ensures that care is provided in a way that maximizes survival chances.
  • Secondary Survey and Definitive Care: After addressing immediate life threats, the secondary survey allows for a more thorough examination of the patient to identify additional injuries. ATLS provides guidelines for managing everything from head trauma to abdominal injuries, ensuring comprehensive care.
  • Team-Based Approach: ATLS emphasizes teamwork, ensuring that all medical professionals in the trauma care setting work together to deliver the best care possible. Effective communication and coordination are key to a successful outcome.

“The Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) protocol is a vital tool for trauma care, ensuring that patients receive rapid, focused, and effective treatment,” adds Dr. Wykstra. At Memorial Satilla, our commitment to ATLS training and trauma care excellence means that patients are getting the highest level of care in their most critical moments.