General
golden hour
What does golden hour mean?
The concept that a severely injured patient's chance of survival is greatest if definitive care is delivered within the first hour.
"We're inside the golden hour, so let's not waste time on the scene."
Origin
Trauma-surgery concept popularised by R Adams Cowley.
Frequently asked questions
What is the golden hour?
It is the idea that a severely injured patient's chance of survival is greatest when definitive care is delivered within the first hour after trauma.
Where does the concept come from?
It is a trauma-surgery concept popularised by R Adams Cowley.
Is the golden hour exactly 60 minutes?
No, it is a guiding principle about acting fast rather than a strict clock; the point is that early definitive care improves outcomes.
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