SAH/ sub-arachnoid haemorrhage

Question 1

SAH risk factors

Answer 1

-same as stroke
-genetic predisposition

Question 2

SAH pathophysiology

Answer 2

-undiagnosed ‘berry’ aneurysm
-bleeding between brain and the membrane covering the brain
-blood then build up around the brain, increasing the pressure

Question 3

SAH signs and symptoms

Answer 3

-sudden headache- ‘thunderclap’
-stiff neck
-nausea/ vomiting
-photophobia
-blurred/ double vision
-focal neurological deficit
-confusion
-reduced LOC
-single fixed dilated pupil (bad)
-bilateral fixed dilated pupils (worse)

Question 4

SAH prodromal signs and symptoms

Answer 4

Occur 10-20 days prior to rupture
-headache
-dizziness
-orbital pain
-diplopia= double vision
-vision loss

Question 5

SAH assessment

Answer 5

-ABCD
-Disability- pupil examination (PERRLA), GCS
-history of prodromal symptoms

Question 6

SAH treatment/ management

Answer 6

-maintain ABCD
-rapid transport to nearest ED with pre alert
-actively treat any seizures