Pre-hospital initiation of fluid replacement therapy in trauma

It is strongly recommended that studies be undertaken to evaluate the appropriateness of pre-hospital intravenous (IV) fluid therapy, including consideration of specific patient groups, for example, young children and infants, and patients with blunt versus penetrating injuries. Assessment of different protocols for pre-hospital care is essential in order to improve understanding of the risks and benefits of the use of IV fluids in this setting.

Validation studies are needed to assess the suitability of the absence of a radial pulse as an indicative marker of hypovolaemia.

It is recommended that studies be undertaken to compare the efficacy of blood volume resuscitation to different blood pressures.