neuro head trauma interventions

[ken143]

hello, just curious if anyone can give some extra input into each of these questions. I am doing a case study on a neuro patient that encountered a head trauma. I just need some additional info from other nurses, thanks!

What is the rationale for raising the head of the bed with a head injury?

What does current research indicate about this intervention?

What are the risks versus benefits of giving steroids to patients with head injuries?

[HT3RN]

The reason you elevate the head of the bed for head trauma's as well as most interventions for head trauma's are geared to decreasing ICP (pressure inside the head). Generally you want the pressure below 20-25mm/hg. Elevating the head + keeping the head and neck in line facilitates blood flow. I don't have any links or where to tell you to find the research. I just know its the standard of practice.

Benefits to steroids is it is supposed to reduce swelling. Negatives it will only work for so long and generally causes an increase in blood glucose. All of our patients are on an insulin protocol.

[kbkrogmann]

Elevating the HOB promotes venous drainage and allows the ICP to decrease. Keeping the neck mid-line and the body in a neutral position also helps.

Steriods have no place in the treatment of traumatic brain injuries, according to the Brain Trauma Foundation (BTF). The put the patient at risk for elevated blood glucose, WBC's, delay healing, etc...