In the trauma primary assessment, which resuscitation adjunct corresponds to continuous cardiac rhythm and rate monitoring?

• A. L
• B. M
• C. N
• D. O

Answer: (A)

Continuous cardiac rhythm and rate monitoring is provided by the cardiac monitor (ECG). In the trauma primary assessment, attaching ECG leads to obtain real-time rhythm strips and a numeric heart rate is essential because it lets you detect life-threatening arrhythmias and track how the heart responds to resuscitation efforts. This monitoring focus is distinct from other adjuncts that measure ventilation or oxygenation, such as pulse oximetry (which shows SpO2 and pulse rate but not rhythm) or capnography (which monitors ventilation via CO2). So the resuscitation adjunct that gives ongoing rhythm and rate information is the cardiac monitor.