How should a CLS handle a casualty with a suspected head injury?

How should a CLS handle a casualty with a suspected head injury?

• A. Encourage the casualty to walk if able
• B. Minimize movement and monitor neurological status, avoiding unnecessary procedures
• C. Conduct a full neurological examination immediately
• D. Administer pain relief as soon as possible

Answer: (B)

The correct response emphasizes the importance of minimizing movement and continuously monitoring the neurological status of a casualty with a suspected head injury. This approach is crucial because head injuries can lead to serious complications, including increased intracranial pressure or worsening of the injury if the casualty is moved improperly. Minimizing movement is essential because it reduces the risk of exacerbating any potential injury to the brain or spinal cord. Movement can potentially cause further injury, especially if there is a spinal component to the head injury. By monitoring the neurological status, the CLS is also able to watch for any changes that may indicate deterioration, such as altered consciousness, unusual pupil response, or impaired motor function. While other actions, such as conducting a full neurological examination or administering pain relief, may be important in certain contexts, they could introduce unnecessary risk or complications for a casualty with suspected head trauma. Therefore, the focus should remain on stabilization and careful observation.

The correct response emphasizes the importance of minimizing movement and continuously monitoring the neurological status of a casualty with a suspected head injury. This approach is crucial because head injuries can lead to serious complications, including increased intracranial pressure or worsening of the injury if the casualty is moved improperly.

Minimizing movement is essential because it reduces the risk of exacerbating any potential injury to the brain or spinal cord. Movement can potentially cause further injury, especially if there is a spinal component to the head injury. By monitoring the neurological status, the CLS is also able to watch for any changes that may indicate deterioration, such as altered consciousness, unusual pupil response, or impaired motor function.

While other actions, such as conducting a full neurological examination or administering pain relief, may be important in certain contexts, they could introduce unnecessary risk or complications for a casualty with suspected head trauma. Therefore, the focus should remain on stabilization and careful observation.