Although trauma protocols differ slightly from center to center, most major trauma centers use criteria for trauma activation similar to the following to activate a level 1 (i.e., highest) response:
1. Blood pressure < 90 mmHg in adults and age specific hypotension in children
2. Intubated patients or presence of respiratory compromise
3. Ongoing blood transfusion or intravenous fluid administration to maintain vital signs
4. Penetrating trauma to the neck, chest, abdomen, flanks, proximal leg above the knee, proximal arm above the elbow
5. Glasgow coma scale 8 or less
6. Trauma or emergency room physician discretion
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