A client is suspected of experiencing a brain injury. The nurse in the emergency department notes that the client had extended loss of consciousness and is now combative. The nurse concludes that the client has experienced:

Question

1. a penetrating brain injury.
2. a concussion.
3. a contusion.
4. intracerebral hematoma.

Answer 1

Answer: 3

1. A penetrating brain injury would involve a break in the skull.
2. A concussion is characterized by a loss of consciousness lasting less than 5 minutes with dizziness and confusion.
3. A contusion is a bruise that involves an extended loss of consciousness with possible combative behavior.
4. Intracerebral hematoma involves decreasing level of consciousness, pupil changes, and motor deficits.