While reviewing the clinical history of a client with brain injury, the nurse finds that there is a bruising of the mastoid process behind the ear of the affected side. Which fracture should the nurse suspect in the client?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Bruising of the mastoid process is a classic sign of a basilar skull fracture, which occurs at the base of the skull and can be life-threatening. A linear fracture is a simple fracture in a straight line, a depressed fracture is when a portion of the skull is pushed inward, and a frontal fossa fracture occurs in the front of the skull. None of these fractures typically present with bruising of the mastoid process.

While Reviewing the Clinical History of a Client with Brain