Residents Rest Easy with Trauma Team Close at Hand

When life hangs in the balance

After a serious accident, advanced trauma care can mean the difference between temporary and permanent disability, or even life and death. Forbes Hospital is certified by the Pennsylvania Trauma Systems Foundation as a Level II Trauma Center. The accreditation is based on the availability of resources and number of patients seen.

Forbes Hospital’s experienced team of trauma doctors, surgeons, specialists, nurses, and support staff:

Treat victims of accidents, crashes, fires, and work-related incidents
Care for injuries from gunshots, falls, motor vehicle crashes, and near drowning
Can draw on the skills of specialists in neurosurgery, orthopaedic surgery, plastic surgery, oral maxillofacial surgery, and ophthalmology

Rapid response and care

The sooner accident victims can get expert medical care, the better their chances of recovery. We coordinate and provide emergency care before the patient reaches the hospital, with LifeFlight helicopters and ambulances. At Forbes Hospital, we have:

A board-certified trauma surgeon on call 24/7
Close working relationships with paramedic teams in 20 communities
A full-time EMS director

A full array of support services

While trauma specialists provide medical care to the patient, other Forbes Hospital team members are able to tend to the emotional needs of the patient and family members. This team includes:

Case managers and social workers
Physical and occupational therapists
Neuropsychology specialists
Substance abuse and violence intervention counselors
Nutritionists
Pastoral care staff

Making a difference when tragedy strikes

The Forbes Hospital trauma team is able to care for many emergency patients at one time. Being close to the scene of an accident allows for fast response, which can be the difference between life and death.

Forbes is the only hospital in the Pittsburgh area that can care for pregnant trauma patients. This was essential for a mother-to-be who:

Suffered four pelvic fractures and injuries to her chest and neck from a motor vehicle incident
Was transported to Forbes and had an emergency cesarean section
Had immediate emergency surgery for her injuries
Recovered well and returned home with her baby.

AHN is trusted for trauma care

In addition to Forbes Hospital, trauma care is available at:

Allegheny General Hospital, a Level I Trauma Center, which offers trauma surgery, surgical critical care and emergency general surgery, and research and education
West Penn Hospital, the only regional hospital verified by both the American Burn Association and the American College of Surgeons to treat pediatric and adult burn patients