An adolescent seeks medical care after being in a street fight.Which observation indicates that this patient has sustained a basilar skull fracture?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Basilar skull fractures can cause hemotympanum, which is the presence of blood behind the eardrum, resulting in bruising around the ears. Hyperthermia and episodic tachycardia are not specific to a basilar skull fracture. Rapid deterioration to comatose can be a sign of a basilar skull fracture, but bruising around the ears is a more accurate and specific answer.

An Adolescent Seeks Medical Care After Being in a Street