Checking My Own Pulse: Why I’m Starting Trauma Tidbits and ACS Audits
They tell you in nursing school that when the trauma pager goes off, the first pulse you should check is your own. It’s a reminder to stay calm when everything—and everyone—is breaking. But they don't always tell you what to do with that adrenaline once the patient is stabilized and the bay is being mopped.
I’ve spent 10 years in the trauma bay, and I’ve realized that while we are experts at "Primary Surveys" and "Damage Control Resuscitation," we often neglect the post-op for ourselves. I’m starting this blog because trauma nursing is a unique beast. It’s 10% clinical perfection, 40% dark humor, and 50% navigating the chaos that happens between the beeps of the monitor.
In this space, we aren't just going to talk about the latest American College of Surgeons updates or how to manage a massive transfusion protocol—though we will definitely cover the "nerdy" clinical stuff. We’re also going to talk about:
The Unspoken Realities: The mental health toll, the "frequent flyers," and the cases that stick with you.
Career Longevity: How to avoid burnout in a specialty that demands everything.
The Tech of 2025: How AI and new trauma protocols are changing the way we triage.
Whether you’re a seasoned flight nurse, a new grad terrified of your first Level 1 activation, or just someone who thrives on the "organized disaster" of the ER, this is for you. We’re here to share the "wins," learn from the "almost-misses," and remind each other that we aren't doing this alone.
Trauma isn’t a solo sport. It takes a village—or at least a very fast-moving team of nurses, techs, and surgeons.
What are the topics in trauma that you want to know more about or what ACS requirement do you want to further explore. Drop a comment below, and let’s get to work.
