Sometimes the biggest advances in trauma care don't come from a new device or a groundbreaking procedure. Sometimes they come from something much simpler: knowing and trusting the person standing next to you.

Trauma centers need staffing plans that grow with patient volume—not just enough to meet ACS or state requirements. Relying on minimum FTEs can lead to delayed registry work, weaker performance improvement, staff burnout, and turnover. By defining clear volume thresholds for adding trauma program, registry, PI, education, and outreach staff, hospitals can support quality care, maintain compliance, and ensure long-term program sustainability.

Hospital leaders make difficult decisions in rural communities when assessing capacity to provide trauma, stroke, and cardiac care.

Obstetric trauma is not uncommon, but extreme OB trauma with emergency c-section is extremely rare, emotionally overwhelming, and clinically complex. Guidelines are essential in these rare situations.

Key strategic considerations for hospitals considering a new trauma program.

The tragedies in Waco, Oklahoma City, Columbine, and Boston have had profound impacts on trauma care.

Proactively Communicate Wishes Through Advanced Directives, POSTs, and Code Status

Some things I learned when I was a fake trauma patient.

A decision tree helps hospitals determine if they can use the 068x trauma charge.

Summary of the OIG report on the use of 68x charges and what trauma centers can do.

Who is involved in trauma care? Almost everyone in the hospital!

The basics of trauma care and the difference between an emergency room and a trauma center.

Heather Tilton is an experienced trauma program manager.