TBI
Structured condition card with NCLEX priority cues and nursing action focus.
Neurohigh priorityneeds review
TBI
Also testable as: Traumatic brain injury
Etiology / Pathophysiology
- Blunt or penetrating trauma damages brain tissue and vessels.
- Primary injury occurs at impact; secondary injury comes from hypoxia, hypotension, edema, or bleeding.
Medications
| Class | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Antiepileptics | May be used for seizure prevention or treatment. |
Nursing actions
- Prioritize airway, oxygenation, cervical spine precautions, and perfusion.
- Trend GCS, pupils, motor response, and signs of basilar skull fracture.
- Report vomiting, worsening headache, seizure, or declining LOC.
Complications
- Increased ICP
- Seizures
- Aspiration
- Subdural or epidural bleeding
NCLEX cues
- Battle sign, raccoon eyes, CSF leak.
- One dilated pupil after head trauma.
- Worsening restlessness.
Memory hooks
- After head injury, behavior change is a neuro change until proven otherwise.
Labs / Diagnostics
- Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.
Review notes
- Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.