Types of Head Injuries
What type of head injury involves bruising of the brain tissue and is often caused by impact?
contusion
What does a perfect GCS score indicate?
full consciousness or normal brain function
What is the first sign of increased ICP?
change in level of consciousness
When is the first critical window for death after a head injury?
immediately after the injury
What position should the head of bed be placed to reduce ICP?
30 degrees
This type of fracture involves multiple bone fragments and an open pathway to the brain.
compound skull fracture
At what score is a patient considered comatose?
GCS of 8 or lower
What is Cushing’s Triad?
increased systolic BP, decreased HR, and decreased RR
What is a common cause of death within 2 hours post-injury?
intracranial bleeding or edema
Why should patients with recent concussions avoid sedatives and alcohol for 24 hours?
avoid masking signs of deterioration
What type of injury results from tearing of brain tissue and is not surgically repairable?
laceration
A patient opens eyes to pain, speaks with inappropriate words, and withdraws from pain. What is their GCS?
9
What is one nursing intervention to reduce ICP?
elevate HOB to 30 degrees
What causes death within 3 weeks after a TBI?
multisystem organ failure or infection
What action should the nurse take if CSF is leaking from the nose?
place loose dressing, elevate HOB, notify physician
Name the type of injury where brain damage occurs both at the point of impact and the opposite side.
coup-contrecoup injury
Which GCS component is the most predictive of long-term outcome?
motor response
What diagnostic test is most commonly used to assess ICP-related injuries?
CT scan
Why is the first 2-hour window considered the “golden hour”?
because early intervention can significantly improve survival
What is the nursing role in managing post-traumatic seizures?
seizure precautions and administering anticonvulsants
What is the name of the condition caused by repeated concussions in athletes that leads to long-term cognitive decline?
chronic traumatic encephalopathy
What are the nursing interventions for a patient with GCS 6?
airway management, neuro checks, and preparing for ICU/monitoring
Name two medications used in the management of increased ICP.
What are mannitol and hypertonic saline
List one nursing action for each of the three timeframes post-injury.
Immediate: airway; 2 hrs: monitor neuro; 3 weeks: prevent sepsis
A patient with ICP is febrile and restless. What combined nursing actions can help?
cooling measures, reduce stimuli, manage oxygenation and hydration