ATLS Head Trauma 3

Question 1

A patient on warfarin presents with a GCS of 10 after a fall. CT reveals an acute subdural hematoma. What is the most critical initial pharmacologic intervention?

Accepted Answer

Reverse anticoagulation with prothrombin complex concentrate and vitamin K

Answer

Immediate reversal with PCC and IV vitamin K is critical to prevent hematoma expansion in anticoagulated patients.

Question 2

Which type of traumatic brain injury carries the highest overall mortality rate?

Accepted Answer

Acute subdural hematoma

Answer

Acute subdural hematoma carries the highest mortality (50-90%) because it usually results from severe primary brain injury.

Question 3

What is the recommended head-of-bed elevation for a patient with severe TBI and elevated ICP?

Accepted Answer

30 degrees

Answer

Head-of-bed elevation to 30 degrees promotes venous drainage from the brain, reducing ICP.

Question 4

A patient with GCS 5 and bilateral fixed dilated pupils after blunt head trauma most likely has which condition?

Accepted Answer

Severe diffuse axonal injury with brainstem involvement

Answer

Bilateral fixed dilated pupils with GCS 5 after blunt trauma most commonly indicates severe diffuse axonal injury with brainstem involvement.

Question 5

Mannitol for intracranial hypertension in trauma is administered at what dose?

Accepted Answer

0.25-1 g/kg IV bolus

Answer

Mannitol is given as an IV bolus of 0.25-1 g/kg for acute ICP reduction.

ATLS - Advanced Trauma Life Support Practice Test

ATLS - Advanced Trauma Life Support Practice Test

ATLS Head Trauma 3