Long falls are just one jot down of mechanism of injury that is seen in emergency medicine.
Healthcare providers use MOI to help determine how likely it is that a serious injury has occurred.
But the term is not used only by healthcare providers.
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We all know what it is even if we don’t know what to call it.
In MOI terms, that’s known as “sudden deceleration.”
It is obvious which one would lead to life-threatening injuries.
Similarly, we can all imagine how agunshot woundhas more potential for serious injuries than a fistfight.
One important thing to remember is that MOI is not the same for everybody.
A lot depends on the physical condition of the person.
Complications (Co-Morbid Factors)
Not everyone is young and healthy.
As we age, our skin gets more delicate and our bones, more brittle.
Differences in factors such as ageand a lot moreare known as “co-morbid factors.”
Heart disease, for example, may affect the patient’s ability to compensate forshock.
That’s whyfalls in the elderlyare so concerning.
As a result, it is more difficult to assess anintoxicated patientfor significant injuries.
Use your gut instinct if you are in a position to handle a likely emergency.
If the incident seems like it would be life-threatening, you’re probably right.
Trust your gut to take the proper action.
2005;123 Suppl:S96-105.
