Research & Review: Management of Emergency and Trauma Nursing

Snake Bite: Types, Causes, Prevention and Management

Nahomi Clement — 2026-02-16

Snakebite is a significant occupational and public health hazard worldwide, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions such as India. It remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality, especially among rural populations engaged in agriculture and outdoor occupations. In India, it is estimated that nearly 50,000 deaths occur annually due to venomous snakebites, with the majority of victims being males between 20 and 50 years of age. Beyond mortality, snakebite contributes substantially to morbidity, resulting in long-term physical disabilities, psychological trauma among survivors, and a considerable economic burden due to prolonged hospitalization, treatment costs, and loss of productive workdays. Despite the seriousness of the problem, snakebite is largely preventable and treatable when timely and appropriate medical interventions are provided. Preventive measures such as community education, use of protective footwear, and environmental modifications play a crucial role in reducing incidence. Early recognition of envenomation, proper first aid, prompt referral, and effective administration of anti-snake venom are key components of successful management. Increased awareness, strengthened healthcare systems, and continuous training of healthcare professionals, particularly nurses, can significantly reduce snakebite-related complications and fatalities. With coordinated preventive and management strategies, the burden of snakebite can be substantially minimized in the coming years.

To Assess the Knowledge of First Aid for Road Traffic Accidents among Drivers

R. Sridevi — 2026-03-18

Immediate First Aid can save lives, reduce the severity of injuries, and improve the outcome before medical help arrives. A study was conducted regarding knowledge of first aid for road traffic accidents among 60 drivers attending the EGS Pillay group of institutions. A pre-experimental one-group pre-test and post-test design was adopted. Data were collected from the drivers by structured interview questionnaire. Data obtained were analysed by using descriptive and inferential statistics regarding pre-test knowledge of first aid for road traffic accidents, 83.33% of participants had inadequate knowledge, 11.67% had moderate knowledge, and only 5% had adequate knowledge and after the teaching programme, the post-test results showed a marked improvement -80% of the participants had adequate knowledge, 13.33% had moderate knowledge, and only 6.67% remained in the inadequate category. The findings indicate that the structured teaching programme was effective in improving drivers’ knowledge of First Aid for Road Traffic Accidents. These findings highlight the need for on-going educational initiatives to equip Drivers with essential First Aid Knowledge, which can play a vital role in saving lives during Road Traffic emergencies.

Mesenteric Ischemia: A Silent Vascular Emergency with High Mortality: Narrative Review

Nayak Harvi — 2026-04-09

A major vascular emergency, mesenteric ischemia is brought on by inadequate blood flow to the intestines and, if left untreated, can result in ischemia, inflammation, and necrosis. It is divided into acute and chronic forms, with the former typically associated with atherosclerosis and the latter frequently arising from arterial embolism or thrombosis. Severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and, in more advanced stages, shock are the symptoms that first appear in older adults with cardiovascular co-morbidities. Laboratory testing and imaging techniques like CT or MR angiography are used in diagnosis to find vascular blockage. Restoring intestinal perfusion and preventing bowel infarction are the goals of management, which includes endovascular or surgical procedures such as bowel resection or revascularisation, fluid resuscitation, oxygen therapy, antibiotics, and anticoagulation. Reducing the morbidity and mortality linked to this potentially fatal illness requires early detection and timely intervention. In addition, emerging diagnostic biomarkers and advancements in minimally invasive techniques have improved early identification and patient outcomes. Multidisciplinary management involving surgeons, radiologists, and critical care specialists further enhances survival rates and reduces complications.

Helmet Use Behavior among Degree College Students in Mysuru: A Descriptive Study with Development of Educational Material

Geetha D. — 2026-04-16

Aims and Objectives: The study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to helmet use for preventing head injuries among degree college students and to examine the relationship between knowledge levels and selected demographic factors.

Methods: A non-experimental descriptive study was conducted among 110 B.Com students who were riders, selected using a non-probability convenience sampling technique. Data were collected using a demographic proforma, structured knowledge questionnaire, Likert scale for attitude, and practice checklist, and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics

Results: The findings indicated that 88.2% of students possessed adequate knowledge about helmet use, while 11.8% had moderately adequate knowledge, and none were classified as having inadequate knowledge. Most students (85.5%) exhibited a satisfactory attitude toward helmet use, with 14.5% showing a moderately satisfactory attitude. In terms of practice, 57.3% demonstrated poor adherence, 26.4% had fair practice, and 16.4% showed good practice regarding helmet usage. Knowledge was significantly associated with variables such as gender, family type, and type of two-wheeler owned (p < 0.05). However, no significant associations were found between demographic factors and students’ attitudes or helmet-use practices.

Interpretation and Conclusion: The findings indicate that although students possess adequate knowledge and a positive attitude towards helmet use, their practice remains poor, highlighting a gap between awareness and actual behavior. The study emphasizes the need for targeted awareness programs and behavioral interventions to improve helmet usage. The results can serve as baseline data for educational institutions and healthcare providers to design effective strategies aimed at reducing head injuries and improving road safety among young motorcyclists. A key limitation is that the single-center convenience sample restricts the generalizability of the findings.