You are assessing a patient who has sustained blunt trauma to the head. Which would be most indicative of the loss of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Clear fluid coming from the nose is most indicative of the loss of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). The CSF can leak from the nose or ears in cases of head trauma. Red-tinged fluid in the ear canal may indicate a ruptured eardrum, while light or dark bruising may indicate soft tissue injuries but are not specific to CSF loss.

You Are Assessing a Patient Who Has Sustained Blunt Trauma