Neurological Trauma Flashcards

A patient's GCS is calculated as: eyes open to voice (3), confused verbal response (4), localizes to pain (5). What is the total GCS score?

Answer: 12

GCS = E3 + V4 + M5 = 12, indicating moderate brain injury.

Which clinical finding is the earliest sign of increasing intracranial pressure (ICP)?

Answer: Altered level of consciousness or restlessness

Altered level of consciousness, including subtle confusion or restlessness, is the earliest and most sensitive indicator of rising ICP.

Cushing's triad, the late sign of increased ICP, includes which three findings?

Answer: Bradycardia, hypertension, and irregular respirations

Cushing's triad—bradycardia, hypertension, and irregular respirations—is a late, ominous sign of brainstem herniation.

A patient with a basilar skull fracture may exhibit which classic finding?

Answer: Battle's sign or raccoon eyes with possible CSF rhinorrhea or otorrhea

Basilar skull fractures classically produce periorbital or mastoid ecchymosis (raccoon eyes/Battle's sign) and possible CSF leaks.

Which type of intracranial hematoma is associated with a lucid interval followed by rapid deterioration?

Answer: Epidural hematoma

Epidural hematoma, classically from middle meningeal artery rupture, produces a lucid interval before rapid neurological decline.

What is the target systolic blood pressure for a hypotensive patient with a traumatic brain injury (TBI) per ATLS guidelines?

Answer: ≥90 mmHg

Maintaining SBP ≥90 mmHg is critical in TBI to ensure adequate cerebral perfusion pressure and prevent secondary brain injury.