You are transporting a patient with a right-sided head injury after a large refrigerator fell and pinned his head between the appliance and the floor. On scene, the patient was responsive to verbal stimuli with the following vital signs: pulse 96, respirations 16, blood pressure 134/66, and SpO₂ 95%. During transport, as you reassess the patient, what would be the most indicative sign that the head injury is worsening?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Responding to painful stimuli instead of verbal stimuli indicates a decrease in the patient's level of consciousness, which is a sign that the head injury may be worsening.

You Are Transporting a Patient with a Right-Sided Head Injury