Advanced trauma life support (ATLS®)

Key Points

• Establish structured clinical protocols and educational standards for the initial evaluation and management of severe trauma patients.
• Formulated through international expert consensus and clinical review by the American College of Surgeons' Committee on Trauma.
• Defines algorithmic primary and secondary survey sequences focusing on airway, breathing, circulation, disability, and exposure.
• Establishes a standardized framework for the rapid prioritization and treatment of life-threatening injuries during acute resuscitation.
• Maintains a universally applicable clinical guideline to enhance coordination and decision-making across emergency trauma care systems.