Head Injury
Head Injury
Head Injury
CLINICAL PROTOCOL
Head injury
Extradural haematoma:
Brief LOC followed by a lucid period.
Severe vomiting and headache
Rapid physical deterioration with decreasing level of consciousness
Pupil dilation on side of haematoma
Weakness on opposite side
Subdural haematoma:
Altered level of consciousness, headache, personality changes
Dilated pupil on side of haematoma
Weakness on opposite side
CLINICAL PROTOCOL
Head injury
CLINICAL PROTOCOL
Head injury
O2 at 8-12L/min
Nil by mouth
+/- IV access
Refer for path/imaging if required.
Reassessment of falls risk status
by RACF if appropriate.
Goals of Treatment
Relief of symptoms
Prevention of recurrence
Prevention of complications
Evaluative strategies
Unexpected Review Patient Notes. Full audit clinical
representation events.
NP Clinical NP Clinical Practice/Medical Report Audit
Practice
Key Terms
NP Nurse Practitioner CP Clinical Protocol
GP General Practitioner
S4 Schedule of the drug administration
act
References
1. Australian Medicines handbook (2011). Australian Medicines Handbook Pty Ltd, SA;
2011
2. RACGP (2008). Guidelines for mild traumatic brain injury following closed head
injury. Accessed 20 Dec 2011 at:
http://www.maa.nsw.gov.au/default.aspx?MenuID=148
3. Department of Health Western Australia (2005). Remote Area Nursing Emergency
Guidelines. Accessed 20 Dec 2011 at: www.ocno.health.wa.gov.au
Nurse Practitioner
CLINICAL PROTOCOL
Head injury
Carol Jones
RN, RM, PGradDipNursePractitioner, NP
Nurse Practitioner