Appendix F: Clinical guideline: assessment and management of strangulation Figure 7: Clinical guideline: assessment and management of strangulation Strangulation (choking) management Management of strangulation depends upon the mechanism of injury, clinical picture of the patient and time since the strangulation event. The post-strangulation documentation (see Appendix L) form guides clinicians through the processes of care. Be aware that many victims of strangulation have minimal symptoms and signs following the event. If patient is alert, orientated, no loss of consciousness, no signs of compromised airways +/- superficial injuries to neck: ― ensure home support ― provide post-strangulation information sheet to patients ― consider referral to primary care for re-evaluation of signs and symptoms that may emerge within 48 hours of the event. History of loss of consciousness more than a few hours ago, but is currently clinically stable – ― assess and treat as for any other head injury ― ensure home support ― provide post-strangulation information sheet to patient ― consider referral to primary care for re-evaluation of signs and symptoms that may emerge within subsequent days. Significant neck pain, dysphagia or dysarthria – discuss/manage with emergency department support Reduced level of consciousness, confusion or compromised airway – usual emergency care provided and refer to the emergency department for urgent assessment/ management
Appendix F: Clinical guideline: assessment and management of strangulation Figure 7: Clinical guideline: assessment and management of strangulation Strangulation (choking) management Management of strangulation depends upon the mechanism of injury, clinical picture of the patient and time since the strangulation event. The post-strangulation documentation (see Appendix L) form guides clinicians through the processes of care. Be aware that many victims of strangulation have minimal symptoms and signs following the event. If patient is alert, orientated, no loss of consciousness, no signs of compromised airways +/- superficial injuries to neck: ― ensure home support ― provide post-strangulation information sheet to patients ― consider referral to primary care for re-evaluation of signs and symptoms that may emerge within 48 hours of the event. History of loss of consciousness more than a few hours ago, but is currently clinically stable – ― assess and treat as for any other head injury ― ensure home support ― provide post-strangulation information sheet to patient ― consider referral to primary care for re-evaluation of signs and symptoms that may emerge within subsequent days. Significant neck pain, dysphagia or dysarthria – discuss/manage with emergency department support Reduced level of consciousness, confusion or compromised airway – usual emergency care provided and refer to the emergency department for urgent assessment/ management
family-violence-assessment-intervention-guideline-jun16_0.docx