Which action is the priority for a client who is admitted to the hospital with a severe head injury

  • PMID: 2775669

Emergency nursing priorities of the head injured patient

R Ward. Axone. 1989 Sep.

Abstract

The first priority in any emergency is always an adequate airway. The nurse is involved in clearing the mouth, inserting an oral airway, assisting with intubation, oxygen therapy and assessing continually the patient's respiratory system. The nurse must also monitor the patient's vital signs, administer intravenous fluids appropriately along with medications, insert foley catheters and note urinary output. Simultaneously, the nurse constantly observes the patient's level of consciousness and neurological status. This information must be documented carefully by the nurse amidst all this apparent chaos. This can be done only when good assessment skills, combined with knowledge of diagnosis, treatment and appropriate nursing intervention, aid the Emergency Nurse in setting priorities in the Emergency care of the head injured patient.

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Which nursing care is priority for a client admitted to the hospital with a severe head injury?

The first priority in any emergency is always an adequate airway. The nurse is involved in clearing the mouth, inserting an oral airway, assisting with intubation, oxygen therapy and assessing continually the patient's respiratory system.

Which intervention would the nurse perform first for the client admitted with a closed head injury and increased intracranial pressure ICP )?

If a patient is suspected of having increased ICP, immediate interventions should include securing the airway, maintaining adequate oxygenation and ventilation, and providing circulatory support as needed.

What action should the nurse take when caring for a patient who has a possible skull fracture as a result of trauma?

Apply firm pressure to the wound with sterile gauze or a clean cloth. But don't apply direct pressure to the wound if you suspect a skull fracture. Watch for changes in breathing and alertness. If the person shows no signs of circulation — no breathing, coughing or movement — begin CPR.

Which findings for a client with a head injury indicates increasing intracranial pressure?

These are the most common symptoms of increased ICP: Headache. Blurred vision. Confusion.