Head Injuries

There may be a skull fracture (closed,open,or depressed) and/or a brain injury.
Brain injuries fall into three categories :

1. Concussion : the mildest injury where loss of brain function is temporary
2. Contusion : the brain is bruised – function may be affected for hours to days,or even weeks.
3. Compression : may result from swelling or a growing blood clot (epidural or subdural haematoma).If compression is due to a blood clot,urgent operation may be required.

Treatment :
1. Give nothing orally
2. Protect the child’s airway
3. Limit fluid intake
4. Elevate the head of the bed to 30 degrees
5. Diagnose and treat other injuries(WHO)