A patient with a moderate diffuse head injury is demonstrating a variety of neurological symptoms. Which of the following would be a priority when caring for this patient?

Question

1. electrolyte replacements
2. ensure a normal intracranial pressure, stable cerebral perfusion pressure, and stable vital signs
3. adequate fluid volume
4. support for nutritional needs

Answer 1

2

Rationale: Since diffuse head injuries are not limited to a localized area, this makes them more difficult to detect and treat. Management in the acute care phase includes diligent and frequent neurological assessments and pain management. When moderate-to-severe injury is present, management may include interventions to lower intracranial pressure, increase cerebral perfusion pressure, and stabilize vital signs, which all contribute to an improved outcome. Even though electrolyte replacement, fluid volume, and nutritional status are important, in the immediate phase, care priorities for this patient would be stabilization of intracranial pressure, cerebral perfusion pressure, and vital signs.