Uraz głowy i wstrząśnienie mózgu
Charakterystyka, pielęgnacja i opieka

Wstrząśnienie mózgu (commotio cerebri) to łagodne urazowe uszkodzenie mózgu (mTBI), które powoduje przejściowe zaburzenia funkcji neurologicznych, wynikające z gwałtownego przemieszczenia mózgu w czaszce i uszkodzenia włókien nerwowych. Objawy obejmują ból głowy, nudności, zaburzenia równowagi, zaburzenia widzenia, splątanie, problemy z pamięcią i koncentracją, a także zmiany nastroju. Diagnostyka opiera się głównie na ocenie klinicznej, gdyż obrazowanie (TK, MRI) zwykle nie wykazuje uszkodzeń. Kluczowe jest monitorowanie neurologiczne (m.in. skala Glasgow, ocena źrenic, siły mięśniowej) oraz obserwacja parametrów życiowych. W pierwszych 24-48 godzinach po urazie zaleca się względny odpoczynek fizyczny i poznawczy, a leczenie jest objawowe, z zastosowaniem paracetamolu do kontroli bólu (unikając NLPZ ze względu na ryzyko krwawienia). Ważne jest unikanie kolejnych urazów głowy, gdyż powtarzające się wstrząśnienia mogą prowadzić do przewlekłych powikłań, takich jak przewlekła encefalopatia urazowa (CTE).

Uraz głowy i wstrząśnienie mózgu – definicja

Wstrząśnienie mózgu (łac. commotio cerebri) to rodzaj łagodnego urazowego uszkodzenia mózgu (mTBI – mild Traumatic Brain Injury), który tymczasowo zaburza funkcjonowanie mózgu. Dochodzi do niego na skutek uderzenia lub wstrząsu głowy bądź ciała, powodującego gwałtowne przemieszczenie się mózgu wewnątrz czaszki. Podczas wstrząśnienia dochodzi do uszkodzenia włókien nerwowych mózgu, co wpływa na jego normalne funkcjonowanie. W większości przypadków nie można zobaczyć tego uszkodzenia w badaniach takich jak tomografia komputerowa czy rezonans magnetyczny.123

Wstrząśnienie mózgu powoduje przejściowe zaburzenie funkcji mózgowych, które może objawiać się utratą świadomości, utratą pamięci, zmianą stanu psychicznego lub osobowości, bądź ogniskowymi ubytkami neurologicznymi. Uszkodzenie powstaje na skutek rozproszonych zmian w tkankach miękkich, stanu zapalnego i minimalnych uszkodzeń strukturalnych w mózgu, prowadząc do tymczasowej dysfunkcji neuronów (trwającej zwykle do 48 godzin).4

Objawy urazu głowy i wstrząśnienia mózgu

Wstrząśnienie mózgu może wpływać na różne obszary funkcjonowania: fizyczny, poznawczy oraz emocjonalny lub behawioralny. Objawy mogą pojawić się natychmiast po urazie lub rozwinąć się w ciągu kilku godzin, dni, a nawet tygodni po urazie.56

Typowe objawy wstrząśnienia mózgu obejmują:78

  • Ból głowy lub uczucie „ciśnienia” w głowie
  • Nudności lub wymioty
  • Problemy z równowagą lub zawroty głowy
  • Podwójne lub zamazane widzenie
  • Nadwrażliwość na światło lub hałas
  • Uczucie spowolnienia, zamglenia, oszołomienia
  • Splątanie, dezorientacja
  • Problemy z koncentracją lub pamięcią
  • Poczucie „nie bycia sobą” lub „obniżonego nastroju”

Po urazie głowy możliwa jest również utrata pamięci dotycząca zdarzeń związanych z wypadkiem, a także trudności z myśleniem i przetwarzaniem informacji.9

Objawy alarmowe

Niektóre objawy mogą wskazywać na poważniejszy uraz głowy i wymagają natychmiastowej pomocy medycznej:1011

  • Jedna źrenica większa od drugiej
  • Senność lub niemożność obudzenia
  • Nasilający się ból głowy
  • Zaburzenia mowy, osłabienie, drętwienie lub obniżona koordynacja
  • Powtarzające się wymioty lub nudności
  • Drgawki lub napady (potrząsanie lub drżenie)
  • Nietypowe zachowanie, zwiększone splątanie, niepokój lub pobudzenie
  • Utrata przytomności (krótka lub przedłużona)
  • Niemożność rozpoznania osób lub miejsc
  • Narastające zdezorientowanie
  • Nowa głuchota w jednym lub obu uszach
  • Problemy ze zrozumieniem lub mówieniem
  • Utrata równowagi lub problemy z chodzeniem
  • Krwawienie z jednego lub obu uszu
  • Przezroczysty płyn wypływający z uszu lub nosa

Pielęgnacja i opieka nad pacjentem z urazem głowy

Pielęgniarki mają kluczową rolę w leczeniu i rekonwalescencji pacjentów z wstrząśnieniem mózgu. Do ich zadań należy ocena funkcji neurologicznych, koordynacja i komunikacja w procesie opieki, wsparcie emocjonalne, rzecznictwo pacjenta oraz edukacja w zakresie profilaktyki.12

Ocena pielęgniarska

Pierwszym etapem opieki pielęgniarskiej jest przeprowadzenie dokładnej oceny stanu pacjenta, która obejmuje zebranie danych fizycznych, psychospołecznych, emocjonalnych i diagnostycznych.13 Ocena pielęgniarska powinna zawierać:1415

  • Dokładne badanie głowy i okolicy szyi pod kątem urazów strukturalnych
  • Ocenę stanu świadomości (skala Glasgow, GCS)
  • Ocenę reakcji źrenic
  • Ocenę siły i symetrii ruchów kończyn
  • Monitorowanie parametrów życiowych (tętno, ciśnienie tętnicze, oddech, temperatura, saturacja)
  • Ocenę bilansowania płynów (podaży i wydalania)

Pielęgniarka powinna również zebrać informacje na temat mechanizmu urazu, objawów, jakich doświadcza pacjent, czasu pojawienia się objawów oraz ich nasilenia i utrzymywania się.16

Interwencje pielęgniarskie

Interwencje pielęgniarskie i plan opieki są kluczowe dla powrotu pacjenta do zdrowia. Po zidentyfikowaniu diagnozy pielęgniarskiej dla wstrząśnienia mózgu, plany opieki pielęgniarskiej pomagają ustalić priorytety w zakresie oceny i interwencji zarówno dla celów krótko-, jak i długoterminowych.1718

Główne interwencje pielęgniarskie obejmują:192021

  • Monitorowanie stanu neurologicznego – regularna ocena poziomu świadomości, reakcji źrenic i funkcji motorycznych
  • Podawanie leków zgodnie z zaleceniami, w tym leków przeciwbólowych i stosowanie niefarmakologicznych metod uśmierzania bólu
  • Utrzymywanie odpowiedniego nawodnienia
  • Zapewnienie spokojnego otoczenia
  • Stosowanie środków bezpieczeństwa
  • Monitorowanie reakcji niepożądanych lub powikłań
  • Ocena bólu
  • Monitorowanie odpowiedzi na leczenie
  • Elewacja głowy łóżka (30°) dla poprawy odpływu żylnego i zmniejszenia ciśnienia śródczaszkowego
  • Zachęcanie do mobilizacji i chodzenia w miarę tolerancji, aby zapobiec powikłaniom, takim jak osłabienie mięśni, przykurcze stawów i zakrzepica żył głębokich
  • Ocena zdolności pacjenta do komunikacji werbalnej i zapewnienie alternatywnych środków komunikacji
  • Ocena reakcji sensorycznych pacjenta, w tym wzroku, słuchu i dotyku

W trakcie opieki nad pacjentem z urazem głowy należy unikać grupowania czynności pielęgnacyjnych, ponieważ mogą one zwiększać ciśnienie śródczaszkowe, jeśli są wykonywane sekwencyjnie. Takie czynności jak zmiana pozycji, odsysanie wydzieliny z dróg oddechowych czy zmiana pościeli powinny być rozłożone w czasie.22

Monitorowanie i obserwacja

Pacjent z wstrząśnieniem mózgu wymaga dokładnej obserwacji w celu wykrycia ewentualnych powikłań. W pierwszych 24-48 godzinach po urazie głowy pacjent powinien pozostawać pod opieką osoby dorosłej, która będzie mogła go monitorować.2324

Minimalne niezbędne obserwacje neurologiczne u pacjentów przyjętych do szpitala z urazem głowy obejmują:25

  • Ocenę w skali Glasgow (GCS)
  • Wielkość i reaktywność źrenic
  • Ruchy kończyn
  • Częstość oddechów
  • Tętno
  • Ciśnienie tętnicze
  • Temperaturę
  • Saturację krwi tlenem

Podczas monitorowania pacjenta należy zwracać szczególną uwagę na objawy, które mogą wskazywać na krwawienie w obrębie lub wokół mózgu, takie jak przedłużająca się senność, splątanie czy zaburzenia świadomości.26

Leczenie urazu głowy i wstrząśnienia mózgu

Leczenie wstrząśnienia mózgu jest przede wszystkim wspomagające i koncentruje się na zapewnieniu odpoczynku oraz stopniowym powrocie do wcześniejszego poziomu aktywności.27

Odpoczynek i stopniowy powrót do aktywności

W pierwszych 24-48 godzinach po wstrząśnieniu mózgu zaleca się względny odpoczynek (nie ścisły), zarówno fizyczny, jak i poznawczy. Jest to jedna z najlepszych metod wspomagających regenerację mózgu.2829

Po początkowym okresie odpoczynku pacjent powinien stopniowo powracać do normalnych czynności dnia codziennego, takich jak nauka, praca i aktywność rekreacyjna, w miarę tolerancji. Zbyt szybki powrót do pełnej aktywności może nasilić objawy i opóźnić proces zdrowienia.3031

Stopniowy powrót do aktywności powinien przebiegać zgodnie z indywidualnym tempem pacjenta. Ważne jest, aby nie próbować robić zbyt wiele naraz.3233

Farmakoterapia

Nie ma specyficznego leku, który mógłby odwrócić skutki wstrząśnienia mózgu.34 W leczeniu objawowym można stosować:

  • Nieopioidowe leki przeciwbólowe, takie jak paracetamol (Tylenol) do leczenia bólu głowy3536
  • Należy unikać stosowania ibuprofenu (Advil, Motrin IB) i aspiryny ze względu na zwiększone ryzyko krwawienia37

Ważne jest, aby nie przyjmować żadnych leków przeciwbólowych dostępnych bez recepty przed konsultacją z lekarzem, jeśli podejrzewa się wstrząśnienie mózgu.38

Zapobieganie kolejnym urazom

Osoba, która doznała wstrząśnienia mózgu, powinna unikać aktywności, które mogłyby spowodować kolejny uraz głowy (np. sporty kontaktowe), dopóki lekarz nie uzna, że może bezpiecznie do nich wrócić.3940

Drugie uderzenie w głowę przed całkowitym wyleczeniem z pierwszego wstrząśnienia może spowodować poważniejsze uszkodzenia mózgu.4142 Syndrom drugiego uderzenia (Second Impact Syndrome) może prowadzić do masowego napływu krwi do mózgu, powodując nieodwracalny obrzęk mózgu, drgawki, śpiączkę lub śmierć w połowie przypadków.43

Powrót do normalnego funkcjonowania

Większość osób z wstrząśnieniem mózgu wraca do zdrowia w ciągu 2-4 tygodni, choć u niektórych objawy mogą utrzymywać się dłużej.4445

Powrót do nauki i pracy

Po wstrząśnieniu mózgu pacjent może potrzebować kilku dni wolnych od szkoły lub pracy.4647 Lekarz może zalecać skrócone dni szkolne lub robocze, a także przerwy w ciągu dnia lub zmodyfikowane lub zmniejszone obciążenie pracą szkolną lub zadaniami zawodowymi w miarę powrotu do zdrowia.48

Powrót do nauki po wstrząśnieniu mózgu, nazywany „return-to-learn”, obejmuje stopniowe zwiększanie ilości pracy szkolnej w oparciu o nasilenie objawów.49

Uczniowie mogą potrzebować pomocy w uzyskaniu przystosowań lub dostosowań (przełożenie testów, dodatkowy czas na wykonanie zadań, częściowe dni szkolne), aby mogli uczestniczyć w zajęciach.50

Powrót do aktywności sportowej

Sporty kontaktowe należy wznowić dopiero po ustąpieniu wszystkich objawów wstrząśnienia i po uzyskaniu zgody od lekarza przeszkolonego w zarządzaniu wstrząśnieniami.5152

Ważne jest, aby przestrzegać protokołu stopniowego powrotu do sportu, który obejmuje kilka etapów i przebiega pod nadzorem personelu medycznego.53

Sportowcy nie powinni wracać do sportu przed powrotem do nauki. Oznacza to, że muszą najpierw skutecznie tolerować powrót do szkoły, zanim wrócą do uprawiania sportu.54

Multidyscyplinarny zespół i wyspecjalizowana opieka

Opieka nad pacjentem z wstrząśnieniem mózgu wymaga podejścia multidyscyplinarnego, obejmującego różnych specjalistów.5556

Skład zespołu multidyscyplinarnego

W zależności od nasilenia objawów i potrzeb pacjenta, zespół multidyscyplinarny może obejmować:575859

  • Lekarzy (neurolog, lekarz medycyny fizykalnej i rehabilitacji, lekarz medycyny sportowej, pediatra)
  • Pielęgniarki rehabilitacyjne
  • Fizjoterapeutów (ocena równowagi, zawrotów głowy, objawów szyjnych i ogólnej mobilności)
  • Terapeutów zajęciowych (poprawa funkcji wzrokowych, pamięciowych i poznawczych)
  • Logopedów (ocena funkcji poznawczych, w tym pamięci, uwagi, funkcji wykonawczych)
  • Neuropsychologów (ocena czynników ryzyka przedłużonego powrotu do zdrowia)
  • Neuro-optometrystów

Wyspecjalizowane usługi i terapie

Wyspecjalizowane usługi i terapie, które mogą być oferowane pacjentom z wstrząśnieniem mózgu, obejmują:606162

  • Terapię przedsionkowo-oczno-ruchową – typ fizjoterapii leczący zaburzenia równowagi i zawroty głowy
  • Terapię wysiłkową – ważna metoda leczenia dla osób z utrzymującymi się objawami wstrząśnienia mózgu
  • Medycynę integracyjną – holistyczne podejście do zarządzania nieprzyjemnymi objawami, takimi jak ból, problemy ze snem, bóle głowy i stres
  • Usługi psychologiczne i sportowo-psychologiczne
  • Zaawansowane technologie diagnostyczne, takie jak Eye Box – narzędzie pomagające lekarzowi sprawdzić, czy ruchy gałek ocznych są zgodne z objawami wstrząśnienia mózgu

Edukacja i profilaktyka

Pielęgniarki odgrywają kluczową rolę w edukacji pacjentów i ich rodzin na temat wstrząśnienia mózgu oraz w profilaktyce urazów głowy.63

Edukacja pacjenta i rodziny

Wczesna edukacja pacjenta i zapewnienie wsparcia są podstawą postępowania w przypadku wstrząśnienia mózgu.64 Edukacja powinna obejmować:6566

  • Przekazanie podstawowych informacji o wstrząśnieniu mózgu, zarówno w formie pisemnej, jak i ustnej
  • Zapewnienie, że można oczekiwać całkowitego powrotu do zdrowia
  • Wyjaśnienie, że objawy mogą się utrzymywać przez kilka tygodni
  • Zachęcanie do wyrażania uczuć i komunikacji
  • Informacje o tym, jak unikać kolejnych urazów głowy
  • Informacje o noszeniu odpowiedniego sprzętu ochronnego podczas uprawiania sportów kontaktowych

Edukacja rodziców i opiekunów jest szczególnie ważna w przypadku dzieci i młodzieży z wstrząśnieniami mózgu. Rodzice powinni być poinformowani o objawach wstrząśnienia i o tym, kiedy należy szukać pomocy medycznej.67

Profilaktyka urazów głowy

Profilaktyka urazów głowy jest niezwykle istotna.68 Można zmniejszyć ryzyko wstrząśnienia mózgu poprzez:6970

  • Noszenie odpowiedniego sprzętu ochronnego podczas uprawiania sportów i innych aktywności rekreacyjnych
  • Zabezpieczenie domu (usunięcie przedmiotów o które można się potknąć, zapewnienie odpowiedniego oświetlenia)
  • Edukowanie innych o wstrząśnieniach mózgu
  • Używanie pasów bezpieczeństwa w pojazdach
  • Stosowanie odpowiednich kasków podczas jazdy na rowerze, deskorolce, nartach itp.
  • Zabezpieczenie okien i schodów w domach z małymi dziećmi
  • Korzystanie z mat antypoślizgowych pod dywanami

Powikłania i długotrwałe skutki

Chociaż większość osób z wstrząśnieniem mózgu wraca do pełnego zdrowia, u niektórych mogą wystąpić powikłania lub długotrwałe skutki.71

Zespół po-wstrząśnieniowy

Zespół po-wstrząśnieniowy (PCS – Post-Concussion Syndrome) to stan, który może wystąpić po wstrząśnieniu mózgu lub innym urazowym uszkodzeniu mózgu. Objawy mogą utrzymywać się przez okres dłuższy niż 3-4 miesiące po urazie.7273

Objawy zespołu po-wstrząśnieniowego mogą obejmować:74

  • Bóle głowy
  • Zamglenie umysłu
  • Zmęczenie
  • Problemy ze snem
  • Problemy z pamięcią
  • Problemy z widzeniem
  • Zawroty głowy
  • Drażliwość
  • Lęk lub depresję

Jeśli objawy wstrząśnienia utrzymują się dłużej niż 2-3 tygodnie, należy ponownie skonsultować się z lekarzem.7576

Długotrwałe skutki wielokrotnych wstrząśnień

Jednokrotne wstrząśnienie zwykle nie powoduje trwałego uszkodzenia mózgu. Jednak wielokrotne wstrząśnienia w ciągu życia mogą zmieniać strukturę mózgu lub sposób jego funkcjonowania, co może prowadzić do poważnych powikłań i zwiększać ryzyko rozwoju poważnych problemów zdrowotnych.77

Powtarzające się, źle leczone wstrząśnienia były wiązane z takimi schorzeniami jak demencja i przewlekła encefalopatia urazowa (CTE – Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy).78

Osoby z przewlekłymi problemami po wstrząśnieniu mózgu powinny być kierowane do specjalistycznej, interdyscyplinarnej opieki.79

Podsumowanie roli pielęgniarskiej w opiece nad pacjentem z urazem głowy

Pielęgniarki odgrywają kluczową rolę w zarządzaniu opieką nad pacjentami z urazem głowy i wstrząśnieniem mózgu, zapewniając ciągłą ocenę neurologiczną, zapobiegając powikłaniom oraz edukując pacjentów i ich rodziny. Współpraca z zespołem multidyscyplinarnym jest niezbędna zarówno w opiece doraźnej, jak i rehabilitacyjnej.80

Główne aspekty opieki pielęgniarskiej nad pacjentem z urazem głowy obejmują:818283

  • Ocenę wstępną i monitorowanie funkcji neurologicznych
  • Zapobieganie wtórnemu uszkodzeniu mózgu
  • Zarządzanie bólem i innymi objawami
  • Edukację pacjenta i rodziny na temat wstrząśnienia, procesu zdrowienia i potencjalnych długoterminowych skutków
  • Koordynację opieki z udziałem zespołu wielodyscyplinarnego
  • Wspieranie stopniowego powrotu do codziennych aktywności
  • Zapobieganie kolejnym urazom głowy

Pielęgniarki mogą także pełnić rolę przywódczą w rozpoznawaniu wstrząśnień, opiece i kierowaniu pacjentów do odpowiednich specjalistów, a także w koordynowaniu i monitorowaniu odpowiedniego odpoczynku poznawczego i dostosowań akademickich w przypadku dzieci i młodzieży.84

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  1. 09.04.2026
  2. www.leksykon.com.pl

Materiały źródłowe

  • #1 Concussion – Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
    https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/Pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=custom.ab_concussion_ac_adult
    A concussion, also called a mild traumatic brain injury, is a head injury. It happens when your brain gets shaken inside your skull from a hit (blow) to your head or when your head and neck jerk when your body is hit. […] With a concussion, your brains nerve fibers get injured, which affects how your brain normally works. In most cases, you cannot see this injury on tests such as a CT scan or MRI. […] Have someone stay with you for the first 24 hours after the concussion, and use the advice below to manage your symptoms, be safe, and start recovering. […] Rest for the first 24 hours. It’s one of the best things to help your brain recover. Its okay to sleep if you want. […] A concussion can affect your concentration and reaction time. Ask your doctor when its safe for you to drive or operate heavy equipment.
  • #2 Concussion – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/concussion/symptoms-causes/syc-20355594
    A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury that affects brain function. […] Most people recover fully after a concussion. […] Children and adolescents need to see a healthcare professional trained in evaluating and managing pediatric concussions. […] It’s important that athletes never return to sports while they’re still experiencing symptoms of concussion. […] Anyone who experiences a brain injury needs to be monitored in the hours afterward and seek emergency care if symptoms worsen. […] These tips may help you prevent or minimize the risk of a concussion: Wear protective gear during sports and other recreational activities. […] Make your home safe. […] Educate others about concussions.
  • #3 Head Injury and Concussion Care – Student Life
    https://www.mines.edu/student-life/head-injury-and-concussion-care/
    Head Injury and Concussion Care […] This is a general resource for students, athletes, staff and faculty to support students who may have experienced a head injury or concussion. […] In non-emergency situations, students can connect with Mines Student Outreach and Support to receive holistic support and guidance regarding concussions or possible concussions. […] A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, or by a hit to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth. This sudden movement can cause the brain to bounce around or twist in the skull, creating chemical changes in the brain and sometimes stretching and damaging brain cells (source: CDC Heads Up). […] Because the brain is extraordinarily complex, every brain injury is different, and concussion symptoms vary from person to person. Concussions can impact a student’s ability to learn and may require academic adjustments and accommodations. Providing appropriate support when students return to classes can prevent symptom exacerbation and lead to a quicker and more successful recovery (source: Concussion Alliance).
  • #4 Concussion: Nursing Diagnosis & Interventions | Nurse.com
    https://www.nurse.com/clinical-guides/concussion/?srsltid=AfmBOopxpBiaTmBC3WO19ZXq755rHx-1jNWkrfT8dwUz_VJFnxn21xmf
    A concussion is a physiologic disruption in brain function that is induced by trauma. It causes consciousness or memory loss, mental state or personality alteration, or focal neurologic deficits. […] Concussions occur in contact sports and during acceleration-deceleration injuries. […] They cause diffuse soft tissue damage, inflammation, and minimal structural damage in the brain, leading to temporary neural dysfunction (under 48 hours). […] Residual effects (dizziness, headaches, memory loss, etc.) may persist for up to 3 to 4 months after injury. […] There is no medication to reverse a concussion. […] Observe and monitor for improvement. […] Utilize non-opioid analgesics for pain, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin). […] Bed rest is recommended, with gradual increase to normal activity.
  • #5 Current Concepts in Concussion: Initial Evaluation and Management | AAFP
    https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2019/0401/p426.html
    Mild traumatic brain injury, also known as concussion, is common in adults and youth and is a major health concern. […] Concussion can affect a variety of clinical domains: physical, cognitive, and emotional or behavioral. […] Initial management also involves patient education and reassurance and symptom management. […] Individuals recover from concussion differently; therefore, rigid guidelines have been abandoned in favor of an individualized approach. […] Initial management of concussion includes brief cognitive and physical rest. The degree and duration of rest are not well defined, but most guidelines recommend at least 24 to 48 hours. […] Early patient education and reassurance are a cornerstone of concussion management. […] An individualized approach to the gradual return to activity after concussion is favored over rigid guidelines, and most algorithms allow for patients to progress at various rates.
  • #6 Head injury and concussion
    https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/head-injury-and-concussion/
    Most head injuries are not serious, but you should get medical help if you or your child have any symptoms after a head injury. You might have concussion (temporary brain injury) that can last a few weeks. […] You or your child could have concussion. Symptoms usually start within 24 hours, but sometimes may not appear for up to 3 weeks. […] If you have been sent home from hospital with a minor head injury, or you do not need to go to hospital, you can usually look after yourself or your child at home. […] You might have symptoms of concussion, such as a slight headache or feeling sick or dazed, for up to 2 weeks. […] make sure an adult stays with you or your child for at least the first 24 hours. […] do not go back to work or school until you’re feeling better. […] do not drive until you feel you have fully recovered. […] do not play contact sports for at least 3 weeks children should avoid rough play for a few days. […] Non-urgent advice: See a GP if: your or your child’s symptoms last more than 2 weeks.
  • #7 Head Injury and Concussion Care – Student Life
    https://www.mines.edu/student-life/head-injury-and-concussion-care/
    Common symptoms include: Headache or “pressure” in head, Nausea or vomiting, Balance problems or dizziness, or double or blurry vision, Bothered by light or noise, Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, or groggy, Confusion, or concentration or memory problems, Just not “feeling right,” or “feeling down.” […] Seek medical attention immediately. In rare cases, a dangerous blood collection (hematoma) may form on the brain after a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body, squeezing the brain against the skull. Call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest emergency department if any of the following danger signs are present: One pupil is larger than the other, Drowsiness or inability to wake up, Worsening headache, Slurred speech, weakness, numbness, or decreased coordination, Repeated vomiting or nausea, convulsions, or seizures (shaking or twitching), Unusual behavior, increased confusion, restlessness, or agitation, Loss of consciousness (brief or prolonged).
  • #8 Concussion: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment | Red Cross
    https://www.redcross.org/take-a-class/resources/learn-first-aid/concussion?srsltid=AfmBOoq-fRJVF59gJCj12g2d-Amhp9jjWY0d4569K9lIkHOYH4oRNg3K
    A concussion is a traumatic brain injury that alters the brain functions. […] A person who has one concussion is at increased risk for complications from subsequent concussions. […] Signs and symptoms of a concussion usually are apparent soon after the injury, although some can appear hours or days later. […] Headache or dizziness* […] Loss of consciousness* […] Confusion* […] Difficulty thinking or remembering* […] Nausea or vomiting* […] Sensitivity to noise or light* […] Seizures* […] Highly emotional state* […] Memory loss* […] Not able to do activities person could do before* […] Difficulty concentrating […] Irritability. […] *Note: Signs and symptoms with a * require immediate emergency medical treatment. […] Have the person rest without moving; leave them in the position found while waiting for EMS. […] A healthcare provider should evaluate the severity of the injury and make recommendations about when the person can return to normal activities.
  • #9 Head injuries and concussion | Better Health Channel
    https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/head-injuries-and-concussion
    Always seek medical attention for a head injury. […] There is no specific treatment for mild head injury other than plenty of rest and not overdoing things. It can take some time for the brain to recover from a head injury and during this time, headaches, dizziness and mild cognitive (thought) problems are common. […] Anyone suspected of having concussion should be assessed by a doctor. […] Be guided by your doctor, but self-care suggestions include: Rest quietly for the day. […] It is common to not be able to remember the events surrounding the head injury. […] It can take some time for the brain to recover from a head injury. During this time, headaches, dizziness and mild cognitive (thought) problems are common. […] Seek urgent medical care if you have: severe headaches, memory problems, blackouts, confusion, slurred speech or unusual behaviour. […] It is best to wait until you are feeling better before you go back to your normal activities. Don’t go to work or school until you have fully recovered.
  • #10 Head Injury and Concussion Care – Student Life
    https://www.mines.edu/student-life/head-injury-and-concussion-care/
    Common symptoms include: Headache or “pressure” in head, Nausea or vomiting, Balance problems or dizziness, or double or blurry vision, Bothered by light or noise, Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, or groggy, Confusion, or concentration or memory problems, Just not “feeling right,” or “feeling down.” […] Seek medical attention immediately. In rare cases, a dangerous blood collection (hematoma) may form on the brain after a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body, squeezing the brain against the skull. Call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest emergency department if any of the following danger signs are present: One pupil is larger than the other, Drowsiness or inability to wake up, Worsening headache, Slurred speech, weakness, numbness, or decreased coordination, Repeated vomiting or nausea, convulsions, or seizures (shaking or twitching), Unusual behavior, increased confusion, restlessness, or agitation, Loss of consciousness (brief or prolonged).
  • #11 Mild head injury and concussion | Headway
    https://www.headway.org.uk/about-brain-injury/individuals/types-of-brain-injury/mild-head-injury-and-concussion/
    Post-concussion syndrome is the name given to the range of symptoms that continue to occur following a mild head injury or concussion. […] After a concussion/mild head injury, it is important that, if possible, you are accompanied by a responsible adult. […] While unlikely, there is a small risk of developing complications, so if you experience any of the following concussion signs and symptoms in the next few days you should go to your nearest Emergency Department as soon as possible: Loss of consciousness […] Increasing disorientation […] New deafness in one or both ears […] Problems understanding or speaking […] Loss of balance or problems walking […] Blurred or double vision […] Any weakness in one or both arms or legs […] Inability to be woken […] Any vomiting […] Bleeding from one or both ears
  • #12 Concussion: Nursing Diagnoses, Care Plans, Assessment & Interventions | NurseTogether
    https://www.nursetogether.com/concussion-nursing-diagnosis-care-plan/
    A concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) that temporarily affects brain function. […] Nurses have multiple responsibilities in the treatment and recovery of patients with concussions, which include assessment of neurological functioning, coordination and communication of care, emotional support, patient advocacy, and prevention education. […] The first step of nursing care is the nursing assessment, during which the nurse will gather physical, psychosocial, emotional, and diagnostic data. […] Nursing interventions and care are essential for the patients recovery. […] Once the nurse identifies nursing diagnoses for concussion, nursing care plans help prioritize assessments and interventions for both short and long-term goals of care. […] Concussions may lead to bleeding in or around the brain, causing symptoms such as prolonged drowsiness and confusion.
  • #13 Concussion: Nursing Diagnoses, Care Plans, Assessment & Interventions | NurseTogether
    https://www.nursetogether.com/concussion-nursing-diagnosis-care-plan/
    A concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) that temporarily affects brain function. […] Nurses have multiple responsibilities in the treatment and recovery of patients with concussions, which include assessment of neurological functioning, coordination and communication of care, emotional support, patient advocacy, and prevention education. […] The first step of nursing care is the nursing assessment, during which the nurse will gather physical, psychosocial, emotional, and diagnostic data. […] Nursing interventions and care are essential for the patients recovery. […] Once the nurse identifies nursing diagnoses for concussion, nursing care plans help prioritize assessments and interventions for both short and long-term goals of care. […] Concussions may lead to bleeding in or around the brain, causing symptoms such as prolonged drowsiness and confusion.
  • #14 Concussion – StatPearls – NCBI BookshelfTwitterFacebookLinkedInGitHubNCBI Insights BlogTwitterFacebookYoutube
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537017/
    A concussion is a „traumatically induced transient disturbance of brain function.” Concussions are a subset of the neurologic injuries known as traumatic brain injuries. […] The prognosis is usually good, and most patients experience complete resolution of symptoms. This activity reviews the etiology, presentation, evaluation, and management of concussions and reviews the interprofessional team’s role in evaluating, diagnosing, and managing the condition. […] Assessment of a patient with a possible concussion should include gathering information on the mechanism of injury, the symptoms the patient is experiencing, the timing of symptom onset, and the severity and persistence of symptoms. […] A physical examination specific to concussions should include: Close examination of the head and neck area for any structural injuries.
  • #15 Concussion: Nursing Diagnosis & Interventions | Nurse.com
    https://www.nurse.com/clinical-guides/concussion/?srsltid=AfmBOopxpBiaTmBC3WO19ZXq755rHx-1jNWkrfT8dwUz_VJFnxn21xmf
    Use the nursing process to develop a plan of care for individuals. […] The nursing assessment (with common findings listed), diagnosis, interventions, expected outcomes, and education for individuals with concussions are listed below. […] Administer medications, as ordered, as well as pain medications and non-pharmacological pain relief measures. […] Encourage individual to express feelings and communicate. […] Maintain the following: Adequate hydration, Calm environment, Safety precautions. […] Monitor the following: Adverse reaction or complications, Input and output, Neurological status, Pain assessment, Treatment response, Vital signs. […] Avoid contact sports until full recovery. […] Wear protective equipment while engaging in contact sports.
  • #16 Concussion – StatPearls – NCBI BookshelfTwitterFacebookLinkedInGitHubNCBI Insights BlogTwitterFacebookYoutube
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537017/
    A concussion is a „traumatically induced transient disturbance of brain function.” Concussions are a subset of the neurologic injuries known as traumatic brain injuries. […] The prognosis is usually good, and most patients experience complete resolution of symptoms. This activity reviews the etiology, presentation, evaluation, and management of concussions and reviews the interprofessional team’s role in evaluating, diagnosing, and managing the condition. […] Assessment of a patient with a possible concussion should include gathering information on the mechanism of injury, the symptoms the patient is experiencing, the timing of symptom onset, and the severity and persistence of symptoms. […] A physical examination specific to concussions should include: Close examination of the head and neck area for any structural injuries.
  • #17 Concussion: Nursing Diagnoses, Care Plans, Assessment & Interventions | NurseTogether
    https://www.nursetogether.com/concussion-nursing-diagnosis-care-plan/
    A concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) that temporarily affects brain function. […] Nurses have multiple responsibilities in the treatment and recovery of patients with concussions, which include assessment of neurological functioning, coordination and communication of care, emotional support, patient advocacy, and prevention education. […] The first step of nursing care is the nursing assessment, during which the nurse will gather physical, psychosocial, emotional, and diagnostic data. […] Nursing interventions and care are essential for the patients recovery. […] Once the nurse identifies nursing diagnoses for concussion, nursing care plans help prioritize assessments and interventions for both short and long-term goals of care. […] Concussions may lead to bleeding in or around the brain, causing symptoms such as prolonged drowsiness and confusion.
  • #18 TBI: Nursing Diagnosis & Interventions | Nurse.com
    https://www.nurse.com/clinical-guides/traumatic-brain-injury-tbi/?srsltid=AfmBOorGaF2KCrcO8l180ynaYkw9isuJjWNt_oUqJOLpBF6ti5YBtl_5
    Nurses help with the acute management and rehabilitation of TBI patients, including monitoring neurological status, preventing secondary injuries, and educating patients and caregivers about recovery and long-term care. […] Nurses are critical in managing patients with TBI, providing continuous neurological assessments, preventing complications, and educating patients and families. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams is key in both acute care and rehabilitation settings. […] The management of TBI focuses on preventing secondary brain injury, managing symptoms, and promoting long-term recovery. […] Monitor intracranial pressure (ICP). Use ICP monitoring devices if indicated and manage ICP elevation through positioning (head of bed at 30 degrees), minimizing stimulation, and administering medications such as mannitol or hypertonic saline.
  • #19 Concussion: Nursing Diagnosis & Interventions | Nurse.com
    https://www.nurse.com/clinical-guides/concussion/?srsltid=AfmBOopxpBiaTmBC3WO19ZXq755rHx-1jNWkrfT8dwUz_VJFnxn21xmf
    Use the nursing process to develop a plan of care for individuals. […] The nursing assessment (with common findings listed), diagnosis, interventions, expected outcomes, and education for individuals with concussions are listed below. […] Administer medications, as ordered, as well as pain medications and non-pharmacological pain relief measures. […] Encourage individual to express feelings and communicate. […] Maintain the following: Adequate hydration, Calm environment, Safety precautions. […] Monitor the following: Adverse reaction or complications, Input and output, Neurological status, Pain assessment, Treatment response, Vital signs. […] Avoid contact sports until full recovery. […] Wear protective equipment while engaging in contact sports.
  • #20 Nursing Care Plan for Head Injury – Made For Medical
    https://www.madeformedical.com/nursing-care-plan-for-head-injury/
    Head injuries can range from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), and require careful assessment, management, and support. As a nurse, your role is crucial in providing immediate and ongoing care to patients with head injuries. This nursing care plan aims to outline evidence-based interventions to assess, manage, and support patients with head injuries. […] The patient may report symptoms such as headache, dizziness, or confusion. […] Risk for Ineffective Cerebral Tissue Perfusion related to head trauma and potential increased intracranial pressure (ICP). […] Monitor the patients level of consciousness, pupillary response, and vital signs regularly. […] Provide emotional support and reassurance to the patient and family/caregivers, addressing their concerns and providing information about the patients condition and treatment plan.
  • #21 Nursing Care Plan for Head Injury – Made For Medical
    https://www.madeformedical.com/nursing-care-plan-for-head-injury/
    Monitor vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, and respiratory rate, frequently to assess for changes that may indicate increased ICP. […] Elevate the head of the bed to promote venous drainage and reduce ICP. […] Administer prescribed medications, such as osmotic diuretics or anticonvulsants, to manage ICP and prevent seizures. […] Collaborate with the healthcare team to ensure prompt diagnostic imaging, such as a CT scan, to assess for brain injury and guide treatment. […] Assess the patients mobility and range of motion regularly. […] Encourage early mobilization and ambulation as tolerated to prevent complications such as muscle weakness, joint contractures, and deep vein thrombosis. […] Assess the patients ability to communicate verbally and provide alternative means of communication, such as using a communication board or picture cards.
  • #22 Trauma nursing 3: assessing and managing head injury | Nursing Times
    https://www.nursingtimes.net/emergency-and-critical-care/trauma-nursing-3-assessing-and-managing-head-injury-19-12-2022/
    Nursing interventions such as positioning, personal care, linen changing and endotracheal suctioning can increase ICP if carried out in sequence, so clustering nursing activities should be avoided (Mestecky, 2007). If the patient is receiving ICP monitoring, the nurse must assess their individual response to these interventions and adjust their care accordingly. […] Enteral feeding must be started as soon as possible to meet patients nutritional requirements. […] Surgical evacuation should be considered for patients with acute subdural haematoma, extradural haematoma or compound fractures with associated mass effect (Vella et al, 2017). […] Psychological services help patients with HI and their families throughout the course of recovery, including through acute care, rehabilitation and long-term support.
  • #23 Head injury and concussion
    https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/head-injury-and-concussion/
    Most head injuries are not serious, but you should get medical help if you or your child have any symptoms after a head injury. You might have concussion (temporary brain injury) that can last a few weeks. […] You or your child could have concussion. Symptoms usually start within 24 hours, but sometimes may not appear for up to 3 weeks. […] If you have been sent home from hospital with a minor head injury, or you do not need to go to hospital, you can usually look after yourself or your child at home. […] You might have symptoms of concussion, such as a slight headache or feeling sick or dazed, for up to 2 weeks. […] make sure an adult stays with you or your child for at least the first 24 hours. […] do not go back to work or school until you’re feeling better. […] do not drive until you feel you have fully recovered. […] do not play contact sports for at least 3 weeks children should avoid rough play for a few days. […] Non-urgent advice: See a GP if: your or your child’s symptoms last more than 2 weeks.
  • #24 Concussions: Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment
    https://www.webmd.com/brain/concussion-traumatic-brain-injury-symptoms-causes-treatments
    The most common and least serious type of traumatic brain injury is called a concussion. A concussion is most often caused by a sudden direct blow or bump to the head. […] If you’ve had a concussion, vision may be disturbed, you may lose equilibrium, or you may fall unconscious. In short, the brain is confused. […] The symptoms for a sports concussion are the same as any other type of concussion. But putting an athlete back in the game too soon could be dangerous and lead to a higher chance of another concussion. […] If you get a second concussion, it may make it much harder to heal and you could have long-term effects such as chronic headaches or learning difficulties. […] It’s important to watch closely for behavioral changes or other signs of a concussion. […] If a child has concussion symptoms, an adult should monitor them for the first 24 hours.
  • #25 Trauma nursing 3: assessing and managing head injury | Nursing Times
    https://www.nursingtimes.net/emergency-and-critical-care/trauma-nursing-3-assessing-and-managing-head-injury-19-12-2022/
    Head injury is a major cause of hospital admission for trauma patients. This third article in our series on trauma nursing explores causes and types of head injuries, and the assessment and management of traumatic brain injury. As well as a focus on acute care, topics also discussed are rehabilitation and long-term support. […] In the UK, around 20% of people with HI require hospital admission, but only 2% of people attending the emergency department with HI die (NICE, 2014). Most fatal outcomes involve people who have sustained moderate-to-severe HIs. This article, the third in a series about trauma, explores how HIs are assessed and managed, including how to identify the few patients who will go on to develop serious acute intracranial complications. […] The minimum required neurological observations for patients admitted to hospital with HI are: GCS score; Pupil size and reactivity; Limb movements; Respiratory rate; Heart rate; Blood pressure; Temperature; Blood oxygen saturation (NICE, 2014). These should be documented.
  • #26 Concussion: Nursing Diagnoses, Care Plans, Assessment & Interventions | NurseTogether
    https://www.nursetogether.com/concussion-nursing-diagnosis-care-plan/
    A concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) that temporarily affects brain function. […] Nurses have multiple responsibilities in the treatment and recovery of patients with concussions, which include assessment of neurological functioning, coordination and communication of care, emotional support, patient advocacy, and prevention education. […] The first step of nursing care is the nursing assessment, during which the nurse will gather physical, psychosocial, emotional, and diagnostic data. […] Nursing interventions and care are essential for the patients recovery. […] Once the nurse identifies nursing diagnoses for concussion, nursing care plans help prioritize assessments and interventions for both short and long-term goals of care. […] Concussions may lead to bleeding in or around the brain, causing symptoms such as prolonged drowsiness and confusion.
  • #27 Concussion – StatPearls – NCBI BookshelfTwitterFacebookLinkedInGitHubNCBI Insights BlogTwitterFacebookYoutube
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537017/
    Diagnosis of a concussion remains an exclusively clinical diagnosis based on history and exam findings. […] After diagnosing a concussion, an outpatient observation by a responsible individual educated on warning signs requiring further evaluation is generally appropriate. […] Treatment of a concussion is primarily supportive. Supportive care for concussion centers around the initial physical and cognitive activity limitation, followed by a gradual return to previous activity levels. […] Most concussion patients recover quickly and fully. During recovery, patients need to understand that they may experience various symptoms. […] Management of a concussion requires an interprofessional team approach involving the patient, family members, coaches, therapists, athletic trainers, and medical providers (clinicians, mid-level practitioners, nurses, and pharmacists).
  • #28 Concussion – Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
    https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/Pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=custom.ab_concussion_ac_adult
    A concussion, also called a mild traumatic brain injury, is a head injury. It happens when your brain gets shaken inside your skull from a hit (blow) to your head or when your head and neck jerk when your body is hit. […] With a concussion, your brains nerve fibers get injured, which affects how your brain normally works. In most cases, you cannot see this injury on tests such as a CT scan or MRI. […] Have someone stay with you for the first 24 hours after the concussion, and use the advice below to manage your symptoms, be safe, and start recovering. […] Rest for the first 24 hours. It’s one of the best things to help your brain recover. Its okay to sleep if you want. […] A concussion can affect your concentration and reaction time. Ask your doctor when its safe for you to drive or operate heavy equipment.
  • #29 Current Concepts in Concussion: Initial Evaluation and Management | AAFP
    https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2019/0401/p426.html
    Mild traumatic brain injury, also known as concussion, is common in adults and youth and is a major health concern. […] Concussion can affect a variety of clinical domains: physical, cognitive, and emotional or behavioral. […] Initial management also involves patient education and reassurance and symptom management. […] Individuals recover from concussion differently; therefore, rigid guidelines have been abandoned in favor of an individualized approach. […] Initial management of concussion includes brief cognitive and physical rest. The degree and duration of rest are not well defined, but most guidelines recommend at least 24 to 48 hours. […] Early patient education and reassurance are a cornerstone of concussion management. […] An individualized approach to the gradual return to activity after concussion is favored over rigid guidelines, and most algorithms allow for patients to progress at various rates.
  • #30 Current Concepts in Concussion: Initial Evaluation and Management | AAFP
    https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2019/0401/p426.html
    After an initial brief rest period, individuals with concussion should be encouraged to gradually return to normal daily routines, such as school, work, and leisure activities, as tolerated. […] A more conservative approach, including waiting longer for return to activity/return to play and more frequent follow-up, is recommended for children and adolescents with concussions. […] Children and adolescents should not return to play in sport until they have successfully tolerated returning to school. […] Management of concussion is summarized in […] Education regarding basic facts of concussion, in written form and reinforced verbally, and reassurance that complete recovery is expected are among the most important aspects of concussion care. […] Initial management after concussion includes a brief period of rest, followed by gradual return to activity.
  • #31 Concussion – Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
    https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/Pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=custom.ab_concussion_ac_adult
    Stay away from activities that could cause another head injury (like sports), until the doctor says its okay. A second blow to the head can cause more damage to the brain. […] Most people with concussion have a good recovery. Managing your symptoms well can help you recover faster. […] Pacing and planning activity is the best way to recover from a concussion. You need to rest and gradually return to your daily activities. Do not try to do too much a once. […] Talk to your doctor if your symptoms havent improved after a few weeks.
  • #32 Concussion – Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
    https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/Pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=custom.ab_concussion_ac_adult
    Stay away from activities that could cause another head injury (like sports), until the doctor says its okay. A second blow to the head can cause more damage to the brain. […] Most people with concussion have a good recovery. Managing your symptoms well can help you recover faster. […] Pacing and planning activity is the best way to recover from a concussion. You need to rest and gradually return to your daily activities. Do not try to do too much a once. […] Talk to your doctor if your symptoms havent improved after a few weeks.
  • #33 Concussion | NHS inform
    https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/injuries/head-and-neck-injuries/concussion/
    When someone is recovering from concussion, they can take paracetamol to help relieve a headache. They should avoid drinking alcohol or taking recreational drugs. Getting plenty of rest and eating well will also help their recovery. […] The graduated return to activity and sport (GRAS) recovery plan is recommended for anyone recovering from a concussion. It involves slowly increasing the amount of activity done over a period of time. […] The minimum time someone should take to return to normal life and sport is 21 days. […] All of them involve light physical activity. This has been shown to be more beneficial than complete rest when recovering from a concussion. […] Poorly managed concussion can lead to poor performance and decision making. This can affect someone in both work and sport. This is why it’s important to follow the 6 stages of recovery for a minimum of 21 days.
  • #34 Concussion: Nursing Diagnosis & Interventions | Nurse.com
    https://www.nurse.com/clinical-guides/concussion/?srsltid=AfmBOopxpBiaTmBC3WO19ZXq755rHx-1jNWkrfT8dwUz_VJFnxn21xmf
    A concussion is a physiologic disruption in brain function that is induced by trauma. It causes consciousness or memory loss, mental state or personality alteration, or focal neurologic deficits. […] Concussions occur in contact sports and during acceleration-deceleration injuries. […] They cause diffuse soft tissue damage, inflammation, and minimal structural damage in the brain, leading to temporary neural dysfunction (under 48 hours). […] Residual effects (dizziness, headaches, memory loss, etc.) may persist for up to 3 to 4 months after injury. […] There is no medication to reverse a concussion. […] Observe and monitor for improvement. […] Utilize non-opioid analgesics for pain, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin). […] Bed rest is recommended, with gradual increase to normal activity.
  • #35 Concussion: Nursing Diagnosis & Interventions | Nurse.com
    https://www.nurse.com/clinical-guides/concussion/?srsltid=AfmBOopxpBiaTmBC3WO19ZXq755rHx-1jNWkrfT8dwUz_VJFnxn21xmf
    A concussion is a physiologic disruption in brain function that is induced by trauma. It causes consciousness or memory loss, mental state or personality alteration, or focal neurologic deficits. […] Concussions occur in contact sports and during acceleration-deceleration injuries. […] They cause diffuse soft tissue damage, inflammation, and minimal structural damage in the brain, leading to temporary neural dysfunction (under 48 hours). […] Residual effects (dizziness, headaches, memory loss, etc.) may persist for up to 3 to 4 months after injury. […] There is no medication to reverse a concussion. […] Observe and monitor for improvement. […] Utilize non-opioid analgesics for pain, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin). […] Bed rest is recommended, with gradual increase to normal activity.
  • #36 Concussion | NHS inform
    https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/injuries/head-and-neck-injuries/concussion/
    When someone is recovering from concussion, they can take paracetamol to help relieve a headache. They should avoid drinking alcohol or taking recreational drugs. Getting plenty of rest and eating well will also help their recovery. […] The graduated return to activity and sport (GRAS) recovery plan is recommended for anyone recovering from a concussion. It involves slowly increasing the amount of activity done over a period of time. […] The minimum time someone should take to return to normal life and sport is 21 days. […] All of them involve light physical activity. This has been shown to be more beneficial than complete rest when recovering from a concussion. […] Poorly managed concussion can lead to poor performance and decision making. This can affect someone in both work and sport. This is why it’s important to follow the 6 stages of recovery for a minimum of 21 days.
  • #37 Concussion – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/concussion/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20355600
    As your symptoms improve, you may gradually add more activities that involve thinking. […] Don’t take other pain relievers such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) and aspirin. These medicines may increase the risk of bleeding. […] It’s important for anyone who has a head injury to be evaluated by a healthcare professional, even if emergency care isn’t required. […] If your child has received a head injury that concerns you, call your child’s healthcare professional right away. Depending on the symptoms, your healthcare professional may recommend that your child get medical care right away. […] Before your appointment, don’t do activities that increase your symptoms and risk another head injury. This includes not playing sports or activities that require vigorous movements.
  • #38 Concussion: What It Is, Symptoms, Causes & Treatments
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15038-concussion
    Your provider may recommend that you take time off work, or that your child stay home for school for a few days. […] Sleep is an extremely important part of recovering from a concussion. […] You shouldnt take any over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications if you think you have a concussion before you see a healthcare provider. […] Concussions are injuries that happen suddenly. […] Talk to your provider before resuming your usual daily routine. […] Go to the emergency room if you experience a head injury and have any concussion symptoms, even if they dont start for hours or days. […] Recovery doesnt always happen in a way that wed expect it might take more or less time at certain stages. Be honest with yourself and your healthcare providers as you recover.
  • #39 Concussion – Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
    https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/Pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=custom.ab_concussion_ac_adult
    Stay away from activities that could cause another head injury (like sports), until the doctor says its okay. A second blow to the head can cause more damage to the brain. […] Most people with concussion have a good recovery. Managing your symptoms well can help you recover faster. […] Pacing and planning activity is the best way to recover from a concussion. You need to rest and gradually return to your daily activities. Do not try to do too much a once. […] Talk to your doctor if your symptoms havent improved after a few weeks.
  • #40 Concussion and Traumatic Brain Injury | Peter O’Donnell Jr. Brain Institute | Condition | UT Southwestern Medical Center
    https://utswmed.org/conditions-treatments/concussion/
    At UT Southwestern Medical Center, we provide comprehensive patient care for concussions resulting from injuries received while playing sports, being in a household or motor vehicle accident, serving in the military, or hits to the head or body occurring in countless other scenarios. […] UT Southwestern has the experience and expertise to treat traumatic brain injuries such as concussions. Our multidisciplinary team includes physicians, neuropsychologists, and nurses who are specialists in brain injuries, as well as physical and occupational therapists, and social workers. […] Concussion causes temporary dysfunction of brain cells and require rest for a full recovery. Patients can usually recover at home, requiring only rest and over-the-counter pain relievers. […] A person with a concussion should have someone at home who can provide close monitoring so that follow-up treatment can be provided if symptoms persist or get worse. […] Recognition and proper response to concussions when they first occur can help prevent further injury or even death. […] An athlete diagnosed with a concussion should only return to playing sports with permission from a doctor.
  • #41 Concussion – Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
    https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/Pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=custom.ab_concussion_ac_adult
    Stay away from activities that could cause another head injury (like sports), until the doctor says its okay. A second blow to the head can cause more damage to the brain. […] Most people with concussion have a good recovery. Managing your symptoms well can help you recover faster. […] Pacing and planning activity is the best way to recover from a concussion. You need to rest and gradually return to your daily activities. Do not try to do too much a once. […] Talk to your doctor if your symptoms havent improved after a few weeks.
  • #42 Pediatric Concussion Care | Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta
    https://www.choa.org/medical-services/concussion
    It’s important to remember that rest for the brain and body is critical when you are recovering from a concussion. Rest, both cognitive (for the brain) and physical (for the body), is the best treatment. […] Serious problems after a concussion are rare but can occur. That’s why a medical doctor should always be involved in a child’s care after a concussion. […] Your child’s doctor may keep your child out of sports, school or other activities. Depending on how severe the concussion is, it can take days, weeks or months for your child’s brain to totally heal. […] If an athlete suffers a second blow to the head before fully recovering from a concussion, the consequence can be catastrophic. Second impact syndrome (SIS) results in a massive rush of blood into the brain causing irreversible brain swelling, seizures, coma or death in one-half of all cases. Over 90 percent of survivors of SIS have permanent brain damage. […] When it comes to caring for concussions, there are specific national guidelines and best practices from a number of organizations. […] Each concussion is unique. Symptoms and recovery time are different for each child or teen.
  • #43 Pediatric Concussion Care | Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta
    https://www.choa.org/medical-services/concussion
    It’s important to remember that rest for the brain and body is critical when you are recovering from a concussion. Rest, both cognitive (for the brain) and physical (for the body), is the best treatment. […] Serious problems after a concussion are rare but can occur. That’s why a medical doctor should always be involved in a child’s care after a concussion. […] Your child’s doctor may keep your child out of sports, school or other activities. Depending on how severe the concussion is, it can take days, weeks or months for your child’s brain to totally heal. […] If an athlete suffers a second blow to the head before fully recovering from a concussion, the consequence can be catastrophic. Second impact syndrome (SIS) results in a massive rush of blood into the brain causing irreversible brain swelling, seizures, coma or death in one-half of all cases. Over 90 percent of survivors of SIS have permanent brain damage. […] When it comes to caring for concussions, there are specific national guidelines and best practices from a number of organizations. […] Each concussion is unique. Symptoms and recovery time are different for each child or teen.
  • #44 Concussion – Parachute
    https://parachute.ca/en/injury-topic/concussion/
    The symptoms of a concussion usually last up to four weeks, but may last longer. In some cases, it can take weeks or months to heal. If a person has had a concussion before, it may take them longer to heal the next time. […] The best way to prevent concussions is to prevent the incidents that cause concussions, such as falls and motor vehicle collisions. […] Baseline testing is not required for post-injury care of youth athletes with suspected or diagnosed concussion. Rather than using resources for baseline testing, we encourage sport organizations and schools to develop processes within their organizations to recognize and remove anyone with a possible concussion, ensure they get medically assessed and support them to return to school and sport safely.
  • #45
    https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/injuries-emergencies/sports-injuries/Pages/Concussions.aspx
    A concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury (TBI). […] The main treatment for concussion is to temporarily cut back on physical and mental activities for the first 48-72 hours. […] Your child may need to take a few days off from school. […] While most kids recover from a concussion in about a month, up to 30% continue to have symptoms for longer periods of time. […] Talk to your child about concussion and tell them to report any concussion symptoms at the time of injury to you and their coach right away. […] Not all concussions can be prevented, but there are some things you can do to reduce the force of the injury. […] Helmets cannot completely prevent a concussion, but they do prevent more severe traumatic brain injury and can reduce the forces that cause a concussion. […] Most importantly, every athlete needs to know how crucial it is to let their coach, athletic trainer, or parent know if they have hit their head or their body and have symptoms of a concussion even if it means stopping play.
  • #46 Concussion: What It Is, Symptoms, Causes & Treatments
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15038-concussion
    Your provider may recommend that you take time off work, or that your child stay home for school for a few days. […] Sleep is an extremely important part of recovering from a concussion. […] You shouldnt take any over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications if you think you have a concussion before you see a healthcare provider. […] Concussions are injuries that happen suddenly. […] Talk to your provider before resuming your usual daily routine. […] Go to the emergency room if you experience a head injury and have any concussion symptoms, even if they dont start for hours or days. […] Recovery doesnt always happen in a way that wed expect it might take more or less time at certain stages. Be honest with yourself and your healthcare providers as you recover.
  • #47
    https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/injuries-emergencies/sports-injuries/Pages/Concussions.aspx
    A concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury (TBI). […] The main treatment for concussion is to temporarily cut back on physical and mental activities for the first 48-72 hours. […] Your child may need to take a few days off from school. […] While most kids recover from a concussion in about a month, up to 30% continue to have symptoms for longer periods of time. […] Talk to your child about concussion and tell them to report any concussion symptoms at the time of injury to you and their coach right away. […] Not all concussions can be prevented, but there are some things you can do to reduce the force of the injury. […] Helmets cannot completely prevent a concussion, but they do prevent more severe traumatic brain injury and can reduce the forces that cause a concussion. […] Most importantly, every athlete needs to know how crucial it is to let their coach, athletic trainer, or parent know if they have hit their head or their body and have symptoms of a concussion even if it means stopping play.
  • #48 Concussion – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/concussion/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20355600
    To diagnose a concussion, your healthcare professional evaluates your symptoms and reviews your medical history. You may need tests that help diagnose a concussion. Tests may include a neurological exam, cognitive testing and imaging tests. […] After a diagnosis of a concussion, you or your child may need to be hospitalized overnight for observation. […] Our caring team of Mayo Clinic experts can help you with your concussion-related health concerns. […] In the first couple of days after a concussion, relative rest allows your brain to recover. Healthcare professionals recommend that you physically and mentally rest during this time. […] Your healthcare professional may recommend that you have shortened school days or workdays. You may need to take breaks during the day, or have modified or reduced school workloads or work assignments as you recover.
  • #49 Head Injury and Concussion Care – Student Life
    https://www.mines.edu/student-life/head-injury-and-concussion-care/
    The process of returning to academic work is called return-to-learn. It involves gradually increasing the amount of schoolwork based on symptom severity. […] Clearance should be provided by the Student Health Center or a local medical provider with experience in concussion evaluation and management. After a concussion evaluation, students should be referred to the SOS Office for care coordination and support. […] Students should regularly monitor their progress during recovery. Key symptoms to watch for include difficulty concentrating, recalling information, answering questions, memory issues, confusion about assignments, inability to complete routine tasks, being easily distracted, trouble following directions, and sensitivity to light or noise. […] Students will have the opportunity to update the SOS Office on their progress. It’s important that students honestly report any setbacks or concerns with their recovery so appropriate support can be provided.
  • #50 Resources For School Nurses — Concussion Alliance
    https://www.concussionalliance.org/resources-for-school-nurses
    Concussions are mild traumatic brain injuries that can occur when the head, neck, or body experiences a blow, resulting in an impulsive force being transmitted to the brain, causing the brain tissue to stretch, compress, and twist inside the skull. […] It is essential to recognize that concussions are not just physical injuries; they can also affect your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. […] Even if they say they feel fine, a student displaying signs of concussion should NOT return to class or sport. […] Advise families to allow their child 1-2 days of relative rest, meaning engagement in non-demanding tasks such as easy daily chores and light walking, with extremely limited screentime in the first 2 days. […] Students may need help securing accommodations or adjustments (postponing tests, extra time on assignments, partial school days) in order to participate in class.
  • #51 Pediatric Concussion Care | Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta
    https://www.choa.org/medical-services/concussion
    When your child gets a head injury, like a concussion, where you take him matters. Our concussion team is dedicated to diagnosing and treating concussions to get kids safely up and running again. […] A concussion is an injury to the brain. It can be caused by a blow or bump to or around the head. This causes the brain to move inside the skull, which can change how the brain works or processes information. […] If you suspect your child has a concussion, talk to your child’s doctor. All head injuries should be taken seriously. In case of an urgent concern or emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department right away. […] Your child should avoid activities that put him at risk for another head injury soon after the first one. A child should recover and be completely symptom-free at rest and with physical exertion before returning to sports or other activities. Before a youth athlete can return to play, he must be cleared by a healthcare provider trained in the management of concussions.
  • #52 Concussion – AANS
    https://www.aans.org/patients/conditions-treatments/concussion/
    Athletes should not return to play while experiencing these symptoms. […] The risk of second-impact syndrome is higher in sports like boxing, football, ice or roller hockey, soccer, baseball, basketball and skiing. […] Concussion symptoms can affect people in a variety of ways, including vision, balance and even mood. […] Clinics exist that help determine the most affected system and appropriate therapy for a given symptomology. […] The protocol calls for a minimum of daily monitoring. […] The first step is rest. […] The next step introduces light aerobic exercise, which takes place under the direct oversight of the teams medical staff. […] The protocol progresses through a series of steps, moving to the next step only when all activities in the current step are tolerated without recurrence of symptoms.
  • #53 Concussion – AANS
    https://www.aans.org/patients/conditions-treatments/concussion/
    Athletes should not return to play while experiencing these symptoms. […] The risk of second-impact syndrome is higher in sports like boxing, football, ice or roller hockey, soccer, baseball, basketball and skiing. […] Concussion symptoms can affect people in a variety of ways, including vision, balance and even mood. […] Clinics exist that help determine the most affected system and appropriate therapy for a given symptomology. […] The protocol calls for a minimum of daily monitoring. […] The first step is rest. […] The next step introduces light aerobic exercise, which takes place under the direct oversight of the teams medical staff. […] The protocol progresses through a series of steps, moving to the next step only when all activities in the current step are tolerated without recurrence of symptoms.
  • #54 Current Concepts in Concussion: Initial Evaluation and Management | AAFP
    https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2019/0401/p426.html
    After an initial brief rest period, individuals with concussion should be encouraged to gradually return to normal daily routines, such as school, work, and leisure activities, as tolerated. […] A more conservative approach, including waiting longer for return to activity/return to play and more frequent follow-up, is recommended for children and adolescents with concussions. […] Children and adolescents should not return to play in sport until they have successfully tolerated returning to school. […] Management of concussion is summarized in […] Education regarding basic facts of concussion, in written form and reinforced verbally, and reassurance that complete recovery is expected are among the most important aspects of concussion care. […] Initial management after concussion includes a brief period of rest, followed by gradual return to activity.
  • #55 Current Concepts in Concussion: Initial Evaluation and Management | AAFP
    https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2019/0401/p426.html
    A multidisciplinary approach should be considered for those with prolonged symptoms, including referral to a physician experienced in concussion management and for formal neuropsychiatric testing. […] Given concern for potential consequences of injury to the developing brain, conservative management is recommended in all children and adolescents.
  • #56 Concussion – StatPearls – NCBI BookshelfTwitterFacebookLinkedInGitHubNCBI Insights BlogTwitterFacebookYoutube
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537017/
    Diagnosis of a concussion remains an exclusively clinical diagnosis based on history and exam findings. […] After diagnosing a concussion, an outpatient observation by a responsible individual educated on warning signs requiring further evaluation is generally appropriate. […] Treatment of a concussion is primarily supportive. Supportive care for concussion centers around the initial physical and cognitive activity limitation, followed by a gradual return to previous activity levels. […] Most concussion patients recover quickly and fully. During recovery, patients need to understand that they may experience various symptoms. […] Management of a concussion requires an interprofessional team approach involving the patient, family members, coaches, therapists, athletic trainers, and medical providers (clinicians, mid-level practitioners, nurses, and pharmacists).
  • #57 Carolina Concussion and Mild TBI Clinic | Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
    https://www.med.unc.edu/phyrehab/patient-services/services-and-specialties/brain-injury-rehabilitation/carolina-concussion-and-mild-tbi-clinic/
    The care team located at The Center for Rehabilitation Care (CRC) is experienced in evaluating and treating adults and adolescents who have, or are suspected of having, a concussion or mild traumatic brain injury. This specialty clinic offers a team approach to managing all aspects of a concussion. […] Your medical care will be led by Dr. Lee Shuping, a Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PMR) physician who has extensive experience in concussion management. Other professional care providers of the interdisciplinary team could include rehabilitation nurses, rehabilitation therapists (physical, occupational and speech therapy), neuro-optometrists and neuropsychologists to address neurological and behavioral effects of TBI. Your care team will use all of their findings to develop a Concussion Care Plan unique to your injury, keeping in mind your goals for returning to activities.
  • #58 Carolina Concussion and Mild TBI Clinic | Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
    https://www.med.unc.edu/phyrehab/patient-services/services-and-specialties/brain-injury-rehabilitation/carolina-concussion-and-mild-tbi-clinic/
    Physical Therapy may evaluate your balance and dizziness (vestibular system), neck symptoms, and overall mobility. They will determine safe exercise levels as you recover from the concussion. […] Occupational Therapy may focus on recovery and adaptation for skills of vision, memory, and cognition that may have been impacted to help the person safely resume meaningful occupations including return to work and/or school, family roles, social participation, and driving. […] Speech-Language Pathology may evaluate your cognitive skills, including memory, attention, executive function skills (i.e. organization, planning), and any communication skills that may have been impacted. Our speech-language pathology team will help to target these skills to improve performance and use of compensatory strategies as you recover.
  • #59 Carolina Concussion and Mild TBI Clinic | Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
    https://www.med.unc.edu/phyrehab/patient-services/services-and-specialties/brain-injury-rehabilitation/carolina-concussion-and-mild-tbi-clinic/
    Neuropsychology may provide a brief consultation or comprehensive evaluation to identify risk factors for prolonged recovery, support patients as they deal with the emotional impact of their injury, and/or aid in developing a comprehensive treatment plan for return to work, school, sport, and other activities.
  • #60 Concussion treatment & symptoms | TRIA Orthopedics
    https://www.healthpartners.com/care/tria-orthopedics/what-we-treat/head-injury/
    Our physical therapy specialists have advanced training in vestibular and ocular motor therapy, a type of physical therapy that treats these issues. […] Exertion therapy is an important treatment for people who have lingering concussion symptoms (protracted recovery). […] Medication is sometimes needed to help with headaches, sleep disturbance, mood concerns or cognitive difficulties. […] Integrative medicine is a holistic approach to managing uncomfortable symptoms like pain, sleep issues, headaches and stress. […] Our clinical sports neuropsychologists offer counseling and sports psychology services to help you recover from these changes and feel like yourself again. […] Its important to take it easy and give yourself time to heal after a concussion. […] Rest is a key factor in recovering from a brain injury. […] In most cases, its safe to return to light physical and mental activity after a couple days. […] Needing to avoid sleep after a concussion is a myth. […] If youve seen a doctor and confirmed no other treatment is needed, its safe to rest.
  • #61 Concussion and Traumatic Brain Injury- Neuroscience Group
    https://neurosciencegroup.com/concussion-care/
    We are proud to offer Eye Box, an award-winning concussion technology used to provide measurable information that can help address diagnose concussions with objective information. […] Your personalized treatment plan could include further testing (MRI, EEG), as well as physical therapy, or speech therapy. We provide complete concussion and TBI care at Neuroscience Group, so we’ll be there for you every step of the way. […] The EyeBox test is a tool that will help your physician find out if your eye movements are consistent with concussions. Results will be used together with other diagnostic tests to determine the best treatment for you. […] Neuroscience Group has the region’s first Eye Box Concussion Assessment device. Our concussion clinic is one of the most comprehensive centers in the state.
  • #62 Concussion and Traumatic Brain Injury | Brain Institute | OHSU
    https://www.ohsu.edu/brain-institute/concussion-and-traumatic-brain-injury
    Therapists in our state-of-the-art rehabilitation center have specific expertise for patients with brain, spinal cord or nerve injuries. Our neurologic rehabilitation care includes expert physical therapists, occupational therapists and speech-language therapists who can help you manage symptoms and regain function.
  • #63 Concussion: Prevention, assessment, and management
    https://www.myamericannurse.com/concussion-prevention-management/
    Early recognition is the first step to proper care. […] Preventing concussions is the cornerstone of care. […] Recognition and proper care of concussion is a priority to prevent injury and promote wellness in the pediatric population. […] Nurses are key players in the push to increase recognition and standardize treatment, making a significant impact on the prevention, recognition, and post-concussion care of youth athletes. […] The role of prevention can’t be overstated. […] School nurses can play a leadership role in concussion recognition, care, and referral, and in coordinating and monitoring proper cognitive rest and academic accommodations. […] Both physical and cognitive activity can worsen concussion symptoms and even delay recovery, so rest is the cornerstone of management.
  • #64 Current Concepts in Concussion: Initial Evaluation and Management | AAFP
    https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2019/0401/p426.html
    Mild traumatic brain injury, also known as concussion, is common in adults and youth and is a major health concern. […] Concussion can affect a variety of clinical domains: physical, cognitive, and emotional or behavioral. […] Initial management also involves patient education and reassurance and symptom management. […] Individuals recover from concussion differently; therefore, rigid guidelines have been abandoned in favor of an individualized approach. […] Initial management of concussion includes brief cognitive and physical rest. The degree and duration of rest are not well defined, but most guidelines recommend at least 24 to 48 hours. […] Early patient education and reassurance are a cornerstone of concussion management. […] An individualized approach to the gradual return to activity after concussion is favored over rigid guidelines, and most algorithms allow for patients to progress at various rates.
  • #65 Concussion: Nursing Diagnosis & Interventions | Nurse.com
    https://www.nurse.com/clinical-guides/concussion/?srsltid=AfmBOopxpBiaTmBC3WO19ZXq755rHx-1jNWkrfT8dwUz_VJFnxn21xmf
    Use the nursing process to develop a plan of care for individuals. […] The nursing assessment (with common findings listed), diagnosis, interventions, expected outcomes, and education for individuals with concussions are listed below. […] Administer medications, as ordered, as well as pain medications and non-pharmacological pain relief measures. […] Encourage individual to express feelings and communicate. […] Maintain the following: Adequate hydration, Calm environment, Safety precautions. […] Monitor the following: Adverse reaction or complications, Input and output, Neurological status, Pain assessment, Treatment response, Vital signs. […] Avoid contact sports until full recovery. […] Wear protective equipment while engaging in contact sports.
  • #66 Current Concepts in Concussion: Initial Evaluation and Management | AAFP
    https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2019/0401/p426.html
    After an initial brief rest period, individuals with concussion should be encouraged to gradually return to normal daily routines, such as school, work, and leisure activities, as tolerated. […] A more conservative approach, including waiting longer for return to activity/return to play and more frequent follow-up, is recommended for children and adolescents with concussions. […] Children and adolescents should not return to play in sport until they have successfully tolerated returning to school. […] Management of concussion is summarized in […] Education regarding basic facts of concussion, in written form and reinforced verbally, and reassurance that complete recovery is expected are among the most important aspects of concussion care. […] Initial management after concussion includes a brief period of rest, followed by gradual return to activity.
  • #67 Concussion in Toddlers & Babies: Symptoms & Treatment | Lurie Children’s
    https://www.luriechildrens.org/en/blog/concussion-prevention-recognition-in-little-ones/
    A concussion is one type of serious head injury. A concussion (also known as a mild traumatic brain injury or TBI) is a more serious head injury because it involves injury to the brain and how the brain functions. […] If you have any concerns that your child may have had a concussion or head injury, bring your child to an Emergency Department or Urgent Care for an evaluation. Call your child’s pediatrician and ask for immediate recommendations. […] If you suspect your child has a concussion, they should receive immediate medical attention. […] Your child should stay at home for the first 2-3 days after their injury. Keep your child away from preschool, playgrounds, and other busy school/play environments. […] While your child is recovering from a concussion, it is important that they do not have a second additional head injury. […] Most children will recover within 2-4 weeks and go back to their normal activities without the return of symptoms. Your child’s doctor can help decide when it is safe for them to return to their normal activities.
  • #68 Concussion: Prevention, assessment, and management
    https://www.myamericannurse.com/concussion-prevention-management/
    Early recognition is the first step to proper care. […] Preventing concussions is the cornerstone of care. […] Recognition and proper care of concussion is a priority to prevent injury and promote wellness in the pediatric population. […] Nurses are key players in the push to increase recognition and standardize treatment, making a significant impact on the prevention, recognition, and post-concussion care of youth athletes. […] The role of prevention can’t be overstated. […] School nurses can play a leadership role in concussion recognition, care, and referral, and in coordinating and monitoring proper cognitive rest and academic accommodations. […] Both physical and cognitive activity can worsen concussion symptoms and even delay recovery, so rest is the cornerstone of management.
  • #69 Concussion – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/concussion/symptoms-causes/syc-20355594
    A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury that affects brain function. […] Most people recover fully after a concussion. […] Children and adolescents need to see a healthcare professional trained in evaluating and managing pediatric concussions. […] It’s important that athletes never return to sports while they’re still experiencing symptoms of concussion. […] Anyone who experiences a brain injury needs to be monitored in the hours afterward and seek emergency care if symptoms worsen. […] These tips may help you prevent or minimize the risk of a concussion: Wear protective gear during sports and other recreational activities. […] Make your home safe. […] Educate others about concussions.
  • #70 Concussion and Head Trauma Care | St. Luke’s Health | St. Luke’s Health
    https://www.stlukeshealth.org/services-specialties/neurology-neurosurgery/neurological-conditions/concussions-head-trauma
    A concussion or head trauma is a type of brain injury that occurs when the brain is shaken or jarred inside the skull due to a blow to the head, a fall, or any other type of injury that causes the head to move rapidly back and forth. […] Its important to assess and monitor concussions closely to know when to call 911 or go to the emergency room. With any head injury, we encourage patients to seek the proper medical attention. […] Recovery from a concussion can take time and varies from person to person. Here are some tips that may help speed up the recovery process: […] Be sure to follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for treatment, which may include medication, therapy, or other interventions to manage symptoms and promote recovery. […] Post-concussion syndrome (PCS) is a condition that can occur after a concussion or other traumatic brain injury. […] Treatment for PCS may involve a combination of medications, therapy, and lifestyle changes to manage symptoms and promote recovery. […] By taking these steps, you can help reduce your risk of sustaining a concussion and other head injuries.
  • #71 Concussion – UF Health
    https://ufhealth.org/conditions-and-treatments/concussion
    Healing or recovering from a concussion takes time. It may take days to weeks, or even months. […] In a small number of people, symptoms of the concussion do not go away. The risk for these long-term changes in the brain is higher after more than one concussion. […] Contact your provider if: A head injury causes changes in alertness. […] Not all head injuries can be prevented. Increase safety for you and your child by following these steps: Always use safety equipment during activities that could cause a head injury.
  • #72 Concussion: Nursing Diagnosis & Interventions | Nurse.com
    https://www.nurse.com/clinical-guides/concussion/?srsltid=AfmBOopxpBiaTmBC3WO19ZXq755rHx-1jNWkrfT8dwUz_VJFnxn21xmf
    A concussion is a physiologic disruption in brain function that is induced by trauma. It causes consciousness or memory loss, mental state or personality alteration, or focal neurologic deficits. […] Concussions occur in contact sports and during acceleration-deceleration injuries. […] They cause diffuse soft tissue damage, inflammation, and minimal structural damage in the brain, leading to temporary neural dysfunction (under 48 hours). […] Residual effects (dizziness, headaches, memory loss, etc.) may persist for up to 3 to 4 months after injury. […] There is no medication to reverse a concussion. […] Observe and monitor for improvement. […] Utilize non-opioid analgesics for pain, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin). […] Bed rest is recommended, with gradual increase to normal activity.
  • #73 Follow-Up Care – Brain Injury Association of America
    https://biausa.org/brain-injury/about-brain-injury/what-is-a-brain-injury/concussion-mtbi/follow-up-care
    Seek additional follow-up care if symptoms have not resolved within 2-3 weeks. Your Primary Care Provider can direct you to the most appropriate specialists to address your student’s needs. […] In a small percentage of students, symptoms may persist beyond the usual 2-3 week period of recovery. In these cases, a specialist should consider a diagnosis of post-concussion syndrome (PCS). […] It is important that follow-up care be provided by healthcare professionals that have concussion training. […] If symptoms from concussion are not resolving after two or three weeks then a physician should consider identifying specialists to support ongoing recovery. […] Allied health professionals are also available to support recovery after concussion. […] Each one needs to be trained to treat the symptoms of concussion. […] Additionally, there are a number of specialists who address a variety of specific symptoms that may be related to the concussion.
  • #74 Post Concussion Syndrome: Symptoms, Diagnosis, & Treatment | Cognitive FX
    https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/post-concussion-syndrome-and-post-concussion-symptoms-pcs
    Post-concussion syndrome (PCS) occurs when a patient experiences persistent symptoms three months or more after a head injury. Those symptoms could include headaches, brain fog, fatigue, sleep problems, memory issues, vision problems, and more. […] Post-concussion symptoms stem primarily from dysfunctional neurovascular coupling (NVC), which is the dynamic relationship between neurons and the blood vessels that supply them. […] Post-concussion symptoms can last for weeks, months, or even years after the concussive event. In general, if your symptoms have not gone away after three months, it’s a good idea to explore treatment options. […] Post-concussion syndrome can be permanent if you do not receive treatment, but often resolves or improves with the right therapy. […] Patients who underwent four days of EPIC Treatment demonstrated significant improvement in both objective and subjective data.
  • #75 Concussion – Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
    https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/Pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=custom.ab_concussion_ac_adult
    Stay away from activities that could cause another head injury (like sports), until the doctor says its okay. A second blow to the head can cause more damage to the brain. […] Most people with concussion have a good recovery. Managing your symptoms well can help you recover faster. […] Pacing and planning activity is the best way to recover from a concussion. You need to rest and gradually return to your daily activities. Do not try to do too much a once. […] Talk to your doctor if your symptoms havent improved after a few weeks.
  • #76 Head injury and concussion
    https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/head-injury-and-concussion/
    Most head injuries are not serious, but you should get medical help if you or your child have any symptoms after a head injury. You might have concussion (temporary brain injury) that can last a few weeks. […] You or your child could have concussion. Symptoms usually start within 24 hours, but sometimes may not appear for up to 3 weeks. […] If you have been sent home from hospital with a minor head injury, or you do not need to go to hospital, you can usually look after yourself or your child at home. […] You might have symptoms of concussion, such as a slight headache or feeling sick or dazed, for up to 2 weeks. […] make sure an adult stays with you or your child for at least the first 24 hours. […] do not go back to work or school until you’re feeling better. […] do not drive until you feel you have fully recovered. […] do not play contact sports for at least 3 weeks children should avoid rough play for a few days. […] Non-urgent advice: See a GP if: your or your child’s symptoms last more than 2 weeks.
  • #77 Concussion: What It Is, Symptoms, Causes & Treatments
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15038-concussion
    Concussions are common injuries, especially among young athletes. Most people recover without long-term effects, but its important not to rush your recovery. […] A concussion is a head injury that happens when your brain moves or twists inside your skull. Concussions are a type of traumatic brain injury. […] One concussion usually doesnt cause permanent brain damage. But experiencing multiple concussions over a lifetime can change your brains structure or how it works, which can lead to severe complications and increase your risk of developing serious health conditions. […] Rest is the most important part of treating a concussion, especially at first. Your brain and body need time to heal. […] Most people need at least a few days of little or no activity. But everyones needs are different, and everyones brains heal at different rates.
  • #78 Concussion | NHS inform
    https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/injuries/head-and-neck-injuries/concussion/
    Continuing to play in a sport or game with a concussion increases the chance of getting another injury. […] Having repeated concussions, or a prolonged concussion, can impact someone’s daily life. It can cause problems at work, in their social life, and with their mental health. […] In some cases, symptoms of a concussion can last more than 28 days. This is called post-concussion syndrome. If someone’s concussion symptoms last for more than 28 days, they should contact their GP practice. […] Repeated, poorly managed concussions have been linked to conditions like dementia and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).
  • #79 Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) – Province of British Columbia
    https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/practitioner-professional-resources/bc-guidelines/concussion-mild-traumatic-brain-injury-mtbi
    Prescribe aerobic exercise interventions to decrease concussion-related symptoms and reduce the risk of persistent symptoms. […] Focus early management strategies on 1) headache, 2) sleep, and 3) mood. […] Conduct a follow-up assessment, ideally within two weeks of diagnosis. […] Refer patients at risk of or experiencing persisting symptoms to interdisciplinary care. […] Provide patient education in verbal and written formats. […] Where possible, co-manage patients 5 years old with persisting symptoms with a pediatrician. […] Early and active management is associated with improved outcomes while prolonged periods of rest may hinder concussion recovery. […] It is important that patients avoid activities that risk reoccurrence of head trauma until medical readiness has been determined.
  • #80 TBI: Nursing Diagnosis & Interventions | Nurse.com
    https://www.nurse.com/clinical-guides/traumatic-brain-injury-tbi/?srsltid=AfmBOorGaF2KCrcO8l180ynaYkw9isuJjWNt_oUqJOLpBF6ti5YBtl_5
    Nurses help with the acute management and rehabilitation of TBI patients, including monitoring neurological status, preventing secondary injuries, and educating patients and caregivers about recovery and long-term care. […] Nurses are critical in managing patients with TBI, providing continuous neurological assessments, preventing complications, and educating patients and families. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams is key in both acute care and rehabilitation settings. […] The management of TBI focuses on preventing secondary brain injury, managing symptoms, and promoting long-term recovery. […] Monitor intracranial pressure (ICP). Use ICP monitoring devices if indicated and manage ICP elevation through positioning (head of bed at 30 degrees), minimizing stimulation, and administering medications such as mannitol or hypertonic saline.
  • #81 Concussion: Prevention, assessment, and management
    https://www.myamericannurse.com/concussion-prevention-management/
    The provider will create an individualized treatment plan, including removal from play, symptom checklists, serial patient monitoring, and a gradual return to physical and cognitive activities. […] Nurses in school, acute care, and primary care settings are in key positions to involve interdisciplinary teams, which includes families, coaches, educators, and other healthcare providers. […] Nurses also can advocate for increased recognition and standardized treatment, making a significant impact on the health of young athletes.
  • #82 Trauma nursing 3: assessing and managing head injury | Nursing Times
    https://www.nursingtimes.net/emergency-and-critical-care/trauma-nursing-3-assessing-and-managing-head-injury-19-12-2022/
    Pre-hospital management of patients includes initial resuscitation and interventions to stabilise them at the scene of injury and when they are on the way to hospital. This assessment and management should focus on preventing secondary brain injury and follow the Advanced Trauma Life Support course (NICE, 2014). […] The goals of the intensive care unit (ICU) care are to: Maintain adequate cerebral oxygen delivery; Manage and treat intracranial hypertension; Prevent secondary brain injury; Prevent or manage potential complications. […] Patient monitoring should be tailored to the clinical presentation. As a minimum, it is essential to monitor: Electrocardiography; Oxygen saturation; Central venous pressure; Arterial pressure; Temperature; Urine output. […] Patients with HI require ICP monitoring if they have a GCS score of 8 and either an abnormal CT scan or a normal CT scan and two or more of the following: Aged 40 years; Motor posturing; Systolic blood pressure of 90mmHg (BTF, 2016).
  • #83 TBI: Nursing Diagnosis & Interventions | Nurse.com
    https://www.nurse.com/clinical-guides/traumatic-brain-injury-tbi/?srsltid=AfmBOorGaF2KCrcO8l180ynaYkw9isuJjWNt_oUqJOLpBF6ti5YBtl_5
    Frequent neurological checks. Assess GCS, pupillary response, and motor function frequently in patients with a significant TBI. […] Administer medications. Administer osmotic diuretics (e.g., mannitol), sedatives, and antiepileptic drugs as prescribed. […] Educate families. Provide information about the patients condition, potential long-term effects, and the recovery process. […] The patient and family demonstrate understanding of the injury, treatment, and long-term rehabilitation needs.
  • #84 Concussion: Prevention, assessment, and management
    https://www.myamericannurse.com/concussion-prevention-management/
    Early recognition is the first step to proper care. […] Preventing concussions is the cornerstone of care. […] Recognition and proper care of concussion is a priority to prevent injury and promote wellness in the pediatric population. […] Nurses are key players in the push to increase recognition and standardize treatment, making a significant impact on the prevention, recognition, and post-concussion care of youth athletes. […] The role of prevention can’t be overstated. […] School nurses can play a leadership role in concussion recognition, care, and referral, and in coordinating and monitoring proper cognitive rest and academic accommodations. […] Both physical and cognitive activity can worsen concussion symptoms and even delay recovery, so rest is the cornerstone of management.