4 Traumatic Brain Injury Free Online FlashCards

Which three responses make up the Glasgow Coma Scale?

The Glasgow Coma Scale assesses eye opening, verbal response, and motor response.

What GCS score results from eye opening to speech, inappropriate words, and withdrawal from pain?

The score is $10$: eye opening to speech is $3$, inappropriate words is $3$, and withdrawal from pain is $4$.

How is TBI commonly classified by GCS score?

A GCS of $13$–$15$ is commonly classified as mild TBI, $9$–$12$ as moderate, and $3$–$8$ as severe.

What is the priority when a patient's GCS falls and drowsiness increases?

Treat the change as neurologic deterioration: promptly reassess airway, breathing, circulation, pupils, and GCS; notify the emergency or trauma team and prepare for urgent evaluation.

What are the immediate priorities for suspected severe TBI with ineffective breathing?

Protect the cervical spine while addressing airway and oxygenation, support ventilation as needed, assess circulation, and activate the appropriate trauma response.

Why must hypoxia and hypotension be addressed early in TBI?

Hypoxia and hypotension can worsen secondary brain injury, so early care prioritizes oxygenation and circulation.

What should worsening headache, vomiting, confusion, and unequal pupils after head injury prompt?

Worsening headache, repeated vomiting, increasing confusion, or unequal pupils can signal a serious intracranial complication; arrange immediate emergency evaluation and escalate care.

How should clinicians use the Canadian CT Head Rule after minor head injury?

A validated rule such as the Canadian CT Head Rule can support the decision, but first confirm the adult meets its inclusion criteria and has no relevant exclusion.

What does an ICP reading above $22\,\text{mm Hg}$ generally warrant?

ICP above $22\,\text{mm Hg}$ warrants prompt clinical attention and management according to the patient's condition and the treating team's protocol.

Is prolonged prophylactic hyperventilation a routine strategy for severe TBI?

No. Prolonged prophylactic hyperventilation is not recommended; excessive or prolonged ventilation can reduce cerebral blood flow and risk worsening brain ischemia.

Should high-dose methylprednisolone be used to reduce ICP after severe TBI?

No. High-dose methylprednisolone is contraindicated in severe TBI and has been associated with increased mortality.

What should a caregiver do if delayed danger signs appear after mild TBI?

Seek emergency medical care immediately; call 911 if the person is difficult to awaken or rapidly worsening.