Head and Brain Injuries Overview

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Questions and Answers

What distinguishes an open head injury from a closed head injury?

An open head injury compromises the integrity of the skull. (correct)

A closed head injury involves penetration of the skull.

An open head injury is always severe.

A closed head injury only results from accidents.

Which type of brain injury is characterized by no identified brain damage despite a change in neurological function?

Contusion

Diffuse axonal injury

Intracranial hemorrhage

Concussion (correct)

What type of brain injury typically leads to coma and is observed in severe head trauma?

Contusion

Concussion

Diffuse axonal injury (correct)

Intracranial hemorrhage

What is a common complication of open-head injuries?

High risk for infection Signup and view all the answers

After a head injury, what could drainage from the ears or eyes indicate?

Potential cerebral spinal fluid leakage Signup and view all the answers

Which type of hematoma can present with delayed symptoms, occurring weeks to months after injury?

Subacute or chronic subdural hematoma Signup and view all the answers

What physical manifestation might occur at the site of a skull fracture?

Localized pain and swelling Signup and view all the answers

In the context of head injuries, when should a cervical spine injury be suspected?

Immediately after any head injury occurs Signup and view all the answers

What is a major cause of neurologic injury in adults aged 65 to 75?

Falls Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended action for firearm owners to prevent accidents?

Lock all firearms Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a manifestation of increased intracranial pressure?

Dilated or pinpoint nonreactive pupils Signup and view all the answers

What might indicate a basilar skull fracture after a head injury?

CSF leakage from the nose or ears Signup and view all the answers

What is a recommended safety measure when riding in a vehicle?

Alwayswear a seatbelt Signup and view all the answers

What risk factor is associated with gunshot wounds?

Assault Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a sign of increased intracranial pressure?

Calm demeanor Signup and view all the answers

What should be assessed if a patient experiences a loss of consciousness after a head injury?

Duration of unconsciousness Signup and view all the answers

What is a common risk associated with older adults sustaining head injuries?

Higher adherence of dura mater to the skull Signup and view all the answers

What is the 'halo sign' indicative of?

CSF leakage Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for maintaining cervical spine stability in a patient with a head injury?

To prevent further neurological damage Signup and view all the answers

Which measure should be implemented to prevent complications of immobility in head-injured patients?

Turn the patient every 2 hours to prevent pressure sores Signup and view all the answers

What precaution should be taken if cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is noted from the patient's nose or ears?

Report the presence of CSF to the provider Signup and view all the answers

How can families cope effectively following a head injury of a loved one?

By seeking information and support from community resources Signup and view all the answers

What important aspect should be monitored in patients with head injuries who are receiving IV fluids?

Excess fluid volume to prevent increased intracranial pressure Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Head Injuries

Head injuries are categorized as open or closed.
Open head injuries involve a compromised skull, either due to penetration or blunt force trauma.
Closed head injuries result from blunt trauma causing head acceleration and deceleration, or striking a stationary object.
Head injuries are further classified as mild, moderate, or severe, based on Glasgow Coma Scale ratings and loss of consciousness duration.

Types of Brain Injury

Brain injury types include concussion, contusion, diffuse axonal injury, and intracranial hemorrhage.
Concussion (mild traumatic brain injury): Results from head trauma causing a change in neurological function but no visible brain damage; usually resolves within 72 hours. Post-concussion syndrome can last longer, with persistent cognitive & physical symptoms for an unspecified time.
Contusion: A brain bruise, often associated with periods of unconsciousness, stupor, or confusion.
Diffuse axonal injury: Widespread brain damage, leading to coma, typically seen in severe head trauma.
Intracranial hemorrhage: Blood pooling within the epidural, subdural, or intracerebral spaces after head trauma. Subacute or chronic subdural hematomas may show symptoms delayed by weeks or months.

Open Head Injuries

Open head injuries increase risk of infection.
Scalp injuries frequently result in heavy bleeding due to impaired blood vessel constriction.

Skull Fractures

Skull fractures can happen because of forceful head injuries and might cause brain damage.
Patients may experience localized pain at the fracture site.
Swelling might be present.
Nurses should monitor for drainage from ears or eyes (cerebrospinal fluid – CSF).

Cervical Spine Injury

Cervical spine injury is a potential concern whenever a head injury occurs.
Before any devices securing the cervical spine are removed, a cervical spine injury must be ruled out.

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Description

This quiz covers the classification and types of head and brain injuries, including open and closed head injuries. It details various brain injuries such as concussions, contusions, and diffuse axonal injuries. Understanding these concepts is crucial for recognizing the severity and implications of traumatic brain injuries.