Head injuries

All head injuries have the potential to be life threatening and qualified medical assistance should be sought in all instances where a major head injury is suspected. Types of major head injuries include concussion, cerebral compression and skull fracture.

Concussion

What is it?

Shaking of the brain causes temporary disturbance of normal brain activity often caused by a blow to the head

Recognition

• Possible brief loss of consciousness
• Dizziness’ and nausea
• Headache
• Brief loss of memory
• Blurred vision

Skull fracture

What is it?

Can be either open or closed; caused by either a direct or indirect blow to the head

Recognition

• Associated wound
• Tenderness and pain
• Depression/ deformity of the skull
• Bruising and swelling at the site of injury
• Presence of cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) from ears and noise

Treatment (General)

• Control any bleeding and or CSF loss
• Contact the emergency services
• Place the casualty in a comfortable position, preferably on a flat surface with head and shoulders raised
• Monitor the casualty and be prepared to carry out basic life support