What is the maximum time for the "golden hour" in trauma care?

The concept of the "golden hour" in trauma care refers to the critical period immediately following a traumatic injury during which timely medical intervention is crucial for improving the chances of survival and recovery. The maximum time defined for the golden hour is one hour from injury to definitive care. This timeframe emphasizes the importance of quick assessment, stabilization, and transport to appropriate medical facilities to address life-threatening conditions effectively.

Trauma care protocols stress that the sooner a patient receives definitive care—such as surgical intervention or advanced medical treatment—the better the outcome is likely to be. Hence, focusing on a one-hour window helps prioritize rapid responses in emergency situations. While immediate care is ideal and beneficial, the golden hour specifically denotes that optimal interventions should occur within this one-hour period to maximize effective treatment and reduce the risk of long-term complications or mortality.