A 10-year-old is hit in the head with a baseball during practice and is diagnosed with concussion, even though no loss of consciousness occurred. The primary care pediatric nurse practitioner is evaluating the child 2 weeks after the injury and learns that the child is still experiencing some sleepiness every day. The neurological exam is normal. The child and the parent are adamant that the child be allowed to return to play baseball. What will the nurse practitioner recommend?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Since the child is still experiencing sleepiness, it is important to continue both physical and cognitive rest to allow the brain to fully heal. Even though the neurological exam is normal, returning to play could cause further injury and delay recovery. The child and parent should be educated on the risks of returning to play too soon and the importance of following the recommended rest and recovery plan.

A 10-Year-Old Is Hit in the Head with a Baseball