Knowing What Happens During the “Golden Hour” Could Save a Life
Traffic accidents happen unexpectedly, but what happens in the minutes that follow can make all the difference.
Whether it's a motorcycle collision, car accident, or pedestrian injury, trauma from road accidents can cause severe internal injuries that are not always immediately visible. While cuts and bruises may seem minor, hidden injuries such as internal bleeding, brain trauma, spinal injuries, or chest injuries can rapidly become life-threatening.
This is why trauma specialists often refer to the "Golden Hour"—the critical period immediately after a serious injury when rapid assessment and emergency treatment offer the greatest chance of survival and recovery.
Not All Injuries Can Be Seen
The force generated during a traffic collision can cause injuries throughout the body, including:
- Internal bleeding, which may not be visible externally but can quickly lead to shock.
- Traumatic brain injuries, ranging from concussion to severe brain swelling and bleeding.
- Chest injuries, including collapsed lungs, fractured ribs, and injuries affecting breathing.
- Fractures and spinal injuries, which may permanently affect mobility if not treated promptly.
Even when someone appears alert after an accident, serious internal injuries may continue to develop over time.
Why Immediate Medical Assessment Matters
Emergency physicians follow internationally recognised trauma protocols designed to identify and treat life-threatening conditions within minutes.
The initial assessment focuses on:
- Controlling severe bleeding
- Protecting the airway and cervical spine
- Supporting breathing and circulation
- Assessing neurological function
- Identifying hidden injuries through rapid imaging and laboratory testing
Depending on the severity of the injuries, patients may undergo emergency ultrasound (FAST scan), CT imaging, X-rays, blood investigations, or urgent surgery to control internal bleeding and stabilise their condition.
Don’t Ignore Symptoms After an Accident
Seek immediate medical attention if you or someone involved in a traffic accident experiences:
- Loss of consciousness
- Persistent headache or confusion
- Chest pain or difficulty breathing
- Severe abdominal pain
- Weakness, numbness, or inability to move limbs
- Heavy bleeding or signs of shock
Even if symptoms appear mild, some serious injuries may not become apparent until hours later.
Emergency Care Doesn’t Start at the Hospital
Early medical intervention often begins at the scene.
Prompt assessment, bleeding control, spinal protection, oxygen therapy, and safe transportation by trained emergency personnel can significantly improve outcomes before patients even arrive at the Emergency Department.
24/7 Emergency Care at American International Hospital
In partnership with Raffles Medical, American International Hospital (AIH) provides comprehensive 24-hour Emergency Services, delivering rapid assessment, advanced trauma care, diagnostic imaging, emergency surgery, and specialist support when every minute matters.
Beyond emergency care within the hospital, AIH also offers:
- 24/7 Emergency Medical Hotline – Dial *1155
- Emergency ambulance response
- Medical standby teams for conferences, sporting events, concerts, and large-scale community events
- Hospital transfers and medically supervised patient transport
- Emergency medical assistance at homes, workplaces, public venues, and incident locations
Prepared for Every Emergency
When a serious accident occurs, every decision and every minute count. Seeking immediate medical care can help identify hidden injuries early, prevent complications, and save lives.
When every second counts, timely emergency care can save lives. Save AIH's 24/7 Emergency Hotline – *1155 – to your phone today.
American International Hospital (AIH) Provides 24/7 Emergency Medical Services – Call *1155
In addition to comprehensive 24/7 Emergency Department services, American International Hospital (AIH) also provides a wide range of pre-hospital and out-of-hospital emergency medical services, including:
🚑 Event Medical Standby & First Aid Services
Professional emergency medical coverage for conferences, sporting events, concerts, exhibitions, and large-scale public gatherings. Our experienced medical teams, supported by internationally equipped ambulances, are prepared to respond to medical emergencies at events of up to 12,000 participants, including the Ravolution Music Festival, Steps Challenge, Swim Gala, and many others.
🚑 Patient Transfer & Medical Transportation Services
Safe and reliable medical transportation for hospital transfers, patient discharges, and medically supervised travel. Our services cover Ho Chi Minh City, surrounding districts, and neighbouring provinces, ensuring continuity of care throughout the patient's journey.
🚑 On-Site Emergency Response
Rapid emergency medical assistance at homes, workplaces, hotels, public venues, and incident scenes. Our emergency teams provide prompt assessment, stabilisation, and medical support, followed by safe transportation to the appropriate healthcare facility when required.
