Computed tomography (CT) has a significant and essential role of trauma patients’ examination. Several studies have shown that computed tomography can improve patient’s prognosis and reduce their mortality. The first hour is the most critical time to survive. Computed tomography is also useful because it’s fast to do. Imaging should be based on the predetermined indications, imaging protocols and ALARA (As Low As Reasonable Achievable) – principle. The diagnosis must not suffer avoiding the use of a large amount of radiation. The risks of injury are more significant than the risks of imaging.

The purpose of this Bachelor’s thesis was to produce a high quality, practical and understandable guidebook for the staff of emergency X-ray department. The long term development aim was to improve the induction of new employees. The second long term development aim was to improve patient’s treatment and imaging.

The subject of Bachelor’s thesis was based on literature and health care databases. The basis of data consisted of articles and latest treatment guides. The final guide was written based on that information and feedback from pre-testing and teachers. The quality of the guidebook was pre-tested by sending the guidebook to the staff of emergency X-ray department. Feedback was given via an electronic feedback form. We got four feedback forms after pre-testing. In the respondents’ opinion the guidebook was clear, appropriate and easy to read. We got also one verbal feedback form. The guidebook was updated and edited based on the feedback.

A guidebook includes information of trauma patient’s treatment path, patient’s examinations, imaging, radiation protection and special challenges of trauma patient. The guidebook also deals with issues concerning for example transferring a patient to examination table and patient monitoring during the examination.

The challenge for further development is to make the guidebook of trauma patient in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MRI examinations are increasing because imaging protocols will make progress and imaging times will be shorter.