Concussion and minor traumatic brain injury

Question 1

things that should be asessed in possible concussion

Answer 1

a) Assess the patient’s GCS.
b) Assess for symptoms such as headache, nausea, amnesia or feeling hazy.
c) Assess for signs such as vomiting, disorientation or reduced attention.
d) Assess short term memory by asking 2-3 questions.
e) Assess coordination by observing the patient walk and performing the
finger-nose test.
f) Assess balance by performing Romberg’s test.

Question 2

concussion red flags

Answer 2

• Loss of consciousness with the injury.
• Abnormal GCS.
• Seizure following the injury.
• Concussion is present and the patient is taking an anticoagulant or has
  a known bleeding disorder.
• Severe signs or symptoms of concussion are present.

Question 3

concussion orange flags

Answer 3

• Headache.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Amnesia or abnormal short term memory.
• Feeling groggy or hazy.
• Disorientated or has reduced attention.
• Abnormal coordination.
• Abnormal balance.
• Recent concussion episode.

Question 4

outline Romberg’s test

Answer 4

• Stand beside the patient and be prepared to assist if they stumble.
• Ask the patient to stand with their feet together, place their arms by their side, get their balance and then close their eyes.
• Observe how long the patient can maintain the stance. A patient with normal balance should be able to maintain the stance without stumbling for more than 15 seconds.