What do you look for in a head trauma assessment?

In a head trauma assessment, examining the pupils is crucial because it provides immediate insights into the severity of the injury and the functioning of the brain. Changes in pupil size, reactivity, or equality can indicate increased intracranial pressure, traumatic brain injury, or neurological deficits. For example, if one pupil is dilated while the other is constricted, this may suggest underlying issues such as nerve damage or bleeding in the brain.

Additionally, assessing the pupils can help in determining the level of consciousness and neurological status of the patient. Monitoring for changes in pupil response can aid in making critical decisions regarding the urgency and type of medical interventions needed. Therefore, focusing on pupils during a head trauma assessment is vital for evaluating the impact of the injury and guiding the care given to the patient.