Concussion
Procedure
Be prepared to administer assisted ventilations if the patient's condition deteriorates. Activate EMS.
- 2.Administer oxygen if available.
- 3.Be on the alert for the development of more serious internal head injuries, they are a Load and Go.
Because head injuries are more likely to lead to an unresponsive patient, monitor carefully and be prepared to tilt the backboard to enable fluids to drain from the mouth and throat (see Spinal injuries in chapter 11).
- 5.Maintain normal body temperature.
Your record keeping can be critically important in the case of head injuries. Inform medical authorities of the following:
- 7.time and details of the incident
- 8.presence or absence of signs and symptoms of spinal disabilities or external head injury
- 9.duration of unresponsiveness, if any
to any change in vital signs and the pupils, check them every five minutes A patient who has lost consciousness should be kept under medical supervision for 24 hours following the injury.