Doctors at Fortis Escorts Amritsar highlight the significance of ‘Golden Hour’ for road accident victims

Doctors at Fortis Escorts Amritsar highlight the significance of ‘Golden Hour’ for road accident victims 

 World Head Injury Awareness Day is observed on March 20th every year to raise awareness about the number of people who suffer from mild bumps on their heads to severe brain injuries. The day also aims to remind people about how to reduce brain injuries and accidents by being mindful 

  Amritsar, March 2024: In 2022, traffic accidents in India claimed around 168,000 lives while over 440,000 more were injured. In the state of Punjab alone, 77.5% of accidents were fatal. The priority here is to take all the necessary precautions while on the road to avoid any accidents - like wearing helmets, and seatbelts and not going over the speed limit. However, in case of an accident --- especially if there’s a head injury, it’s imperative to have timely access to expert treatment. For this, it’s essential to raise awareness among people on ‘the Golden Hour’ and the ‘Chain of Survival’, says Dr Harpreet Singh Thind, Head Emergency, Fortis Escorts, Amritsar.   

The term "Golden Hour" in emergency care describes the critical period following a catastrophic injury, when prompt medical action increases a patient's chance of survival and reduces irreparable damage to the victim's body. The emergency team performs CPR, intubation, and medicine administration to rapidly assess and stabilize patients, enhancing patient outcomes. Four crucial actions are outlined in the Chain of Survival model: early CPR initiation, quick defibrillation, timely recognition and activation of emergency services, and advanced life support interventions.  

Dr Harpreet Singh Thind, Head Emergency, Fortis Escorts, Amritsar, said, “We must emphasize the significance of prompt medical attention, particularly during the crucial window time known as the Golden Hour (01 hour post the accident has occurred). It is critical to stabilize vital signs, secure the airway, and begin diagnostic testing during this period. Time is of the essence and every second matters. Not getting access to medical attention during this critical period can significantly reduce an individual's odds of survival; and raise the risk of permanent disability and in many cases might lead to loss of life. Each one of us must take up the responsibility to understand the importance of the Golden Hour and the Chain of Survival in the event of any medical emergency.” 

 Dr Hridyesh Mehra, Attending Consultant Emergency, Fortis escorts Amritsar, said, “Timely access to expert treatment and interventions can be life-saving and prevent irreversible harm. Therefore, it is recommended to reach out to emergency services, including ambulance service (dialing 108) and the police (dialing 100). Road accidents, often caused by collisions, drunk driving, or speeding vehicles, can result in catastrophic head injuries, where swift medical attention is critical for recovery. While awaiting the arrival of the ambulance, it is essential to take necessary actions, such as checking the injured person's pulse and providing CPR if necessary. Raising awareness about both the Golden Hour and the Chain of Survival is of paramount importance.”