Trauma Care in the Western Upper Peninsula's Only Level III Trauma Center

As the only Level III Trauma Center serving the Western Upper Peninsula, many may not know exactly what that means for our community. Sarah Niemela, trauma program manager at UP Health System – Portage, talks about the meaning behind the certification, the specific training required for physicians and nurses, typical trauma injuries and the correct steps to take in the event of an emergency. 

Q: What does it mean to be a Level III Trauma Center?

A: UPHS – Portage is a level III Trauma Center, verified by the American College of Surgeons (ACS). This achievement recognizes our dedication to providing care for injured patients. Level III Trauma Centers provide hospital resources necessary for trauma care as well as the entire spectrum of care to address the needs of all injured patients.

In order to be verified as a Level III Trauma Center, UP Health System – Portage must have 24/7 physician and department coverage in place to meet the guidelines of the American College of Surgeons and the State of Michigan:

• Trauma surgeons
• Orthopedic surgeons
• Radiology
• Emergency department
• Intensive care physicians and registered nurses 
• CT procedures
• Operating room
• Resuscitation
• Monitoring
• Diagnostic equipment 

Q: As a Level III Trauma Center, what type of training do physicians and nurses have to complete? 

A: All of the emergency department physicians at UPHS – Portage maintain board certification, as well as complete the ATLS (Advanced Trauma Life Support) course. Our general surgeons maintain current ATLS certification as well as complete the required number of trauma continuing education credits (CME) annually, required by the American College of Surgeons. Emergency and intensive care RNs are all current in Trauma Nursing Core Course (TNCC) as well as other advanced care courses such as Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS). RNs complete trauma and critical care-related competencies annually and are able to attend and maintain other optional advanced care courses. 

Our staff is well trained and are members of our community who are committed to providing the most appropriate and timely care to their friends, neighbors and families. It's because of them we are verified as a Level III Trauma Center. 

Q: Certified through the American College of Surgeons, how often does the recertification process happen and what are the certifications based on?

A: The trauma program maintenance and chart review happens on a daily basis; however, we are required to re-verify with ACS every three years.

Q: During the warmer months, do you see an uptick in trauma injuries through the various outdoor activities community members participate in? If so, what type of injuries?

A: It may be surprising but the most common mechanism of injury is falling. Injuries sustained from falls can range from minor such as scrapes, contusions, or broken bones to as serious as a life-threatening brain bleed or solid organ injury (many times, the spleen). The second and third most common mechanisms of injury are “other land transport accidents” (ATV, snowmobile, motorcycle, etc.) and motor vehicle crashes, which happen year-round.

Q: How can community members protect themselves during these activities?

A: Getting into the habit of using personal protective items is really important and easy to do. Seatbelts, helmets, life jackets, infant car seats, and chest protectors are just some of the items that help to save lives when worn during the appropriate activities. Aging patients working to maintain their mobility, strength and balance, and being aware of potential trip hazards are also important in preventing falls. 

Q: In the event of an emergency, what are the correct steps to take? 

A: Get help as soon as possible. Call 911. Know your location and the other important information that a 911 operator will ask for. Even if you are in a location without cell service — a call or text to 911 will still go through.

Your health means everything at UP Health System – Portage and we are committed to serving trauma patients in a comprehensive trauma center. When illness, injury, heart attacks, or strokes occur—every minute matters. To learn more about emergency services at UP Health System – Portage, visit UPHealthSystem.com.