Asked by Nancy Sanders on Jul 05, 2024
Verified
An adolescent boy is brought to the emergency department after a motorcycle accident. His respirations are deep, periodic, and gasping. There are extreme fluctuations in blood pressure. Pupils are dilated and fixed. The nurse should suspect which type of head injury?
A) Brainstem
B) Skull fracture
C) Subdural hemorrhage
D) Epidural hemorrhage
Brainstem Injury
Damage to the brainstem, which can lead to critical issues like altered consciousness, difficulties in breathing, and compromised heart function.
Subdural Hemorrhage
A type of bleeding that occurs beneath the dura mater of the brain, often resulting from traumatic injury, leading to pressure on brain tissues.
Epidural Hemorrhage
Bleeding between the inner surface of the skull and the dura mater, often resulting from traumatic injury and potentially leading to increased intracranial pressure.
- Describe various types of head injuries and their specific clinical manifestations in pediatric patients.
Verified Answer
RS
ramya sivanandamJul 10, 2024
Final Answer :
A
Explanation :
Signs of brainstem injury include deep, rapid, periodic or intermittent, and gasping respirations. Wide fluctuations or noticeable slowing of the pulse, widening pulse pressure, or extreme fluctuations in blood pressure are consistent with a brainstem injury. Skull fracture, subdural hemorrhage, and epidural hemorrhage are not consistent with brainstem injuries.
Learning Objectives
- Describe various types of head injuries and their specific clinical manifestations in pediatric patients.