fast_trauma_algorithm: Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma (FAST)...

In cliot: Clinical Indices and Outcomes Tools

Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma (FAST) Algorithm

Description

Interprets the findings of the FAST exam in the context of the trauma patient's hemodynamic status. The FAST exam uses ultrasound to detect free fluid in the pericardial, perihepatic (RUQ), perisplenic (LUQ), and pelvic regions. The result guides immediate surgical or diagnostic decisions (Laparotomy vs. CT vs. Observation).

Usage

fast_trauma_algorithm(pericardial_fluid, ruq_fluid, luq_fluid, pelvic_fluid,
                      patient_unstable)

Arguments

pericardial_fluid	Numeric (0 or 1). Presence of fluid in the subxiphoid/pericardial view. (1 = Yes).
ruq_fluid	Numeric (0 or 1). Presence of fluid in the Right Upper Quadrant (Morison's Pouch). (1 = Yes).
luq_fluid	Numeric (0 or 1). Presence of fluid in the Left Upper Quadrant (Splenorenal Recess). (1 = Yes).
pelvic_fluid	Numeric (0 or 1). Presence of fluid in the Pelvic view (Retrovesical/Pouch of Douglas). (1 = Yes).
patient_unstable	Numeric (0 or 1). Is the patient hemodynamically unstable (e.g., Hypotension, Shock)? (1 = Yes).

Value

A list containing:

Result	The overall interpretation of the FAST exam (Positive/Negative and location).
Management_Recommendation	Clinical guidance based on ATLS protocols for the combination of FAST result and stability.

References

Rozycki GS, Ochsner MG, Schmidt JA, et al. A prospective study of surgeon-performed ultrasound as the primary adjuvant modality for injured patient assessment. J Trauma. 1995;39(3):492-498.

Examples

# Example 1: Unstable patient with fluid in RUQ
# Result: Positive FAST -> Laparotomy
fast_trauma_algorithm(0, 1, 0, 0, 1)

# Example 2: Stable patient with fluid in Pelvis
# Result: Positive FAST -> CT Scan
fast_trauma_algorithm(0, 0, 0, 1, 0)

# Example 3: Unstable patient with Negative FAST
# Result: Negative -> Search for other causes (Pelvic fx, etc.)
fast_trauma_algorithm(0, 0, 0, 0, 1)

cliot documentation built on Dec. 1, 2025, 1:06 a.m.