You would be in the right place if you or a loved one sustained a head injury recently.
Any head injury requires full assessment and management procedures. It will ensure that no secondary complications will arise. It is one of the main reasons you must get the right kind of help if you or someone you know got injured from a head injury.
We’re here to guide you on what you need to know about head injury assessment and management. Read on to find out more.
Initial Assessment After a Head Injury
Initial assessment after a head injury is paramount for proper evaluation and management. It includes a physical and mental examination of the patient and an on-scene assessment. You should evaluate the patient’s level of consciousness, vital signs, neurologic assessment, Glasgow Coma Scale, and neurologic response during the initial review.
You should ask questions to the patient if they are conscious to assess the type of injury. It will also help determine the best course of treatment. It is important to note any movement or behavior that may suggest injury or attempted intervention.
Anxious behavior such as increased heart rate and sweating can also pinpoint signs of an injury. You should also collect forensic evidence during this assessment and document it accordingly.
Different Types of Head Injuries
Head injuries can be categorized into three general groups: mild, moderate, and severe. A mild head injury is often described as a concussion.
Symptoms can include headache, dizziness, trouble thinking, or an altered state of consciousness. These injuries are usually not severe, and a thorough assessment is not required.
Moderate head injuries may need a more detailed examination. Possible symptoms may include stumbling or slurred speech.
A CT scan is usually recommended to rule out severe damage. A doctor or physician may also need to assess balance, coordination, and other physical deficits.
Severe head injuries typically include skull fractures, visible swelling on the brain, or a large amount of bleeding. Prompt medical attention is recommended as these injuries are potentially life-threatening. A detailed physical assessment and neurological exam, including laboratory tests, are necessary for an accurate diagnosis.
Treatment and Management
Treatments range from supportive care to medications and physical and mental health therapies. For example, pain medications, such as ibuprofen and rest, may be enough to reduce symptoms of mild head injuries. But more severe injuries may need surgery and extensive care.
For example, surgery may be necessary if a skull fracture is present. Or if there is a hematoma in the head or neck and to address associated neurologic problems. After a head trauma, you may need physical therapy to aid in the recovery of movement deficits.
You may also prescribe cognitive therapies such as speech-language therapy to aid in the recovery of deficits in thought and communication. It is vital to be aware of what effects head injuries can have on one’s life. It can be headaches, sleep deprivation, memory loss, and depression.
It’s also vital to be aware of the complications of untreated concussion symptoms. It is also essential to manage these symptoms appropriately to maximize recovery and quality of life.
Proper Head Injury Assessment Is Important
The correct head injury assessment and management are essential to provide the best outcome for the patient. So, healthcare professionals must know how to assess, diagnose, and manage head injuries accordingly.
Seek immediate medical care when needed. For more information and resources, consult a doctor or medical professional.
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Rachel Dixon works on Business, travel and features blogs at Daily Mid Time and Zobuz. She has passionate for travelling and cooking. Spending time with family as well as on internet to enhance her capabilities for well orientated content creation and blog writing.
