Primary Management of Road Traffic Accident (RTA): A Life-Saving Guide

By Dr. Rishabh Gautam — Anaesthetist, Intensivist & Emergency Care Specialist

Road Traffic Accidents claim thousands of lives every year, and most deaths occur before reaching the hospital. Knowing the first few steps can save a life, especially when supported by Anesthesia & Pain Management Services at Abhisri Hospital which play a crucial role in stabilizing critical patients during emergencies.

1️⃣ Ensure Safety First

Check for traffic, fire, fuel leakage.

Make the area safe before approaching the victim.

Your safety comes first.

2️⃣ Call Emergency Services (108)

Give clear details: location, number of victims, type of accident, consciousness level.

3️⃣ Primary Survey: ABCDE

A – Airway

Ensure the airway is open. Use jaw thrust; avoid moving the neck.

B – Breathing

Look, listen, and feel for breathing.

If absent → start Compression-Only CPR.

C – Circulation & Bleeding Control

Apply direct pressure to bleeding wounds.

Use a tourniquet only if trained.

D – Disability

Assess responsiveness (AVPU) and check pupils.

E – Exposure

Check for injuries but prevent cold by covering the patient.

4️⃣ Positioning

Unconscious but breathing → Recovery position.

Suspected spine injury → Do not move unnecessarily.

5️⃣ Don’ts

❌ No giving water/food

❌ No pulling out stuck objects

❌ No crowding

❌ No lifting by arms/legs

❌ No arguments or recording videos

6️⃣ Transfer Safely

Shift only when safe, preferably on an ambulance stretcher, keeping the neck aligned. During such emergencies, Multispeciality Healthcare Services at Abhisri Hospital ensure proper support and timely medical intervention.

Early, calm, and correct action during the Golden Hour saves lives.

Every citizen can be a lifesaver.

Dr. Rishabh Gautam