INTRODUCTION
The utilization of the Focused Assessment with Sonography in Trauma (FAST) examination is rapidly being incorporated in most emergency departments (EDs) across Jamaica. With training, the procedure is accurate and sensitive and can be completed by emergency physicians within 5 minutes. Furthermore, it is non-invasive, repeatable, and portable with no need for contrast (1). We present the case of a young male patient who presented in extremis to the emergency room within ten minutes of penetrating chest trauma. With timely application of FAST, along with the utilization of the Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) principles, the patient survived. In this case report, we seek to highlight the value of prompt assessment of the trauma patient incorporating FAST with the benefits of rapid diagnosis with a favourable outcome. The prompt and life-saving FAST along with the application of the ATLS guidelines as it relates to pericardiocentesis are examined.
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