Guidelines for seeking medical attention after head trauma

An epidural hematoma occurs when there is bleeding between the dura mater (the tough layer of tissue between the brain and skull) and the skull bone.

The bleeding occurs when arteries are torn as a result of a blow to the head. Common causes include skiing and snowboarding injuries, motor vehicle accidents, and violent blows to the head.

Minor head trauma can cause temporary loss of mental function. However, there are still potential risks for something bad to happen. Because bleeding may continue, there is a chance that a person could be fine for a period of time, but then experience a rapid decline in neurological status without warning.

If a person sustains a head trauma, even if deemed relatively minor, there are several symptoms that should trigger prompt medical attention and a CT scan of the brain. These symptoms are not all inclusive, but should be used as a guideline:

    1.    Headache
    2.    Vomiting
    3.    Short term memory loss
    4.    Lethargy or drowsiness
    5.    Dizziness
    6.    Weakness on one side of the body
    7.    Seizure
    8.    Alcohol intoxication
    9.    Physical evidence of head trauma or neck trauma
    10.    Age greater than 60.

Any patient on blood thinners such as Coumadin or Plavix that has sustained a head trauma should also seek immediate medical attention.

Any patient who sustains a blow to the head should be monitored for any of the signs listed above and be brought to the emergency department immediately if any of the signs or symptoms occur. The key to preventing serious permanent injury or death from an epidural hematoma is to recognize these signs and symptoms and have the blood aspirated by a neurosurgeon if necessary.

Wren Ballard, MSN, APN, CCRN