You are treating a 16-year-old male patient who fell while practicing a new move on his skateboard. Bystanders relate that the patient was not wearing a helmet. The bystanders also relate that the patient was alert and oriented following the fall; however, while waiting for you to arrive, the patient became unconscious. While performing your physical exam, you note that the patient has a hematoma to the right temporal area. Your assessment leads you to believe that your patient has an epidural hematoma. You know that an epidural hematoma is caused by what type of bleeding?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Epidural hematomas are caused by arterial bleeding, most commonly from the middle meningeal artery. This type of bleeding can rapidly accumulate and cause increased pressure on the brain, leading to unconsciousness and potentially life-threatening complications. Prompt recognition and intervention are critical in managing epidural hematomas.

You Are Treating a 16-Year-Old Male Patient Who Fell While