TBI TBI Pharmacological Management

Question 1

Which medication class is commonly used to manage agitation in the acute phase of TBI?

Accepted Answer

Benzodiazepines

Answer

Benzodiazepines are frequently used short-term to control agitation and anxiety during the acute TBI phase.

Question 2

Why is aspirin generally avoided in the immediate post-TBI period?

Accepted Answer

It inhibits platelet aggregation and raises bleeding risk

Answer

Aspirin's antiplatelet effects can worsen intracranial hemorrhage in the acute TBI setting.

Question 3

Which antiepileptic drug is most commonly used for seizure prophylaxis in severe TBI within the first 7 days?

Accepted Answer

Levetiracetam

Answer

Levetiracetam (Keppra) is widely used for early post-traumatic seizure prophylaxis due to its favorable side-effect profile.

Question 4

What is the primary concern with using opioids for pain management in TBI patients?

Accepted Answer

They can mask neurological changes and worsen consciousness assessment

Answer

Opioids alter level of consciousness and pupil reactivity, making accurate neurological monitoring difficult.

Question 5

Which drug is used to reduce cerebral edema by creating an osmotic gradient to draw water from brain tissue?

Accepted Answer

Mannitol

Answer

Mannitol is an osmotic diuretic that reduces cerebral edema by drawing fluid out of brain tissue into the vasculature.

TBI - Traumatic Brain Injury Certification Practice Test