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Emergency nursing priorities of the head injured patientR Ward. Axone. 1989 Sep. AbstractThe 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. Similar articles
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What is the goal of nursing management of a patient with a head injury?The primary goal of nursing management in severe head trauma is to maintain adequate cerebral perfusion and improve cerebral blood flow in order to prevent cerebral ischaemia and secondary injury to the brain.
How do you care for a head injury patient?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.
What should the nurse do first when a client with a 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.
What are the management priorities for a patient with a traumatic brain injury?The cornerstone of the management of TBI is the intensive care treatment of these patients with careful attention paid to the airway, oxygenation and adequate hemodynamic support to avoid the secondary injuries that are associated with events such as hypoxia and hypotension.
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