You are called to the lodge by a family who is concerned that their mother is not acting right. The family tells you that they are concerned because their mother has been complaining of a headache and is very confused today. Assessment reveals a bruise on the right side of the head that the family states she got about a week ago when she fell. Which of the following conditions would you be concerned about based on the history and assessment findings?
a. A subdural hematoma
b. A scalp laceration
c. A concussion
d. A cerebral contusion
Question 2Which of the following findings is most consistent with a skull fracture?
a. Bruising behind the ear that develops several hours after the injury
b. Bilateral dilated pupils that do not respond to light
c. A hematoma in the occipital area of the head
d. Altered mental status
Question 3You are participating in training OEC candidates and are asked about cerebral contusions. You would explain to the class that a cerebral contusion is:
a. an open skull fracture with increased pressure within the skull.
b. the formation of a pocket of blood within the brain tissue.
c. bruising and swelling of the brain tissue.
d. active bleeding between the brain and the skull.
Question 4A 41-year-old male snowboarder struck his head on a metal rail. As you approach him, you note that he appears confused and has blood on the left side of his face and head, and on his shirt. His breathing appears to be labored. Which of the following actions should you perform immediately?
a. Check his pupils for equality and reactivity.
b. Apply oxygen at 15 LPM via nonrebreather mask.
c. Apply manual in-line spinal immobilization.
d. Expose the chest to look for possible bleeding.
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