A patient involved in an altercation has been struck on the side of the head with a baseball bat, in addition to suffering several blows to the arms and legs. When assessing this patient, which of the following signs or symptoms best indicates the patient has suffered a brain injury?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Confusion and combativeness is a common sign of brain injury. This can include disorientation, memory loss, and difficulty communicating. A headache may also be present, but it is a less specific sign of a brain injury as it can be caused by many different factors. Ecchymosis to the face may indicate a facial fracture, but would not necessarily indicate a brain injury. Weakness to the arms may be present if the patient has suffered a musculoskeletal injury, but does not specifically indicate a brain injury.

A Patient Involved in an Altercation Has Been Struck on the Side