Lightning Learning: Neurological Observations in Head Injury
“Neurological observations must be performed on all patients with a head injury to recognise deterioration and monitor progress.”
What?
Neurological observations must be performed on all patients with a head injury. Aims to recognise deterioration and monitor progress.
Observations must include:
GCS
Pupil size + reactivity
Limb movements
Respiratory Rate
Blood pressure
Temperature
Oxygen Saturations
Why?
Frequency and timing of observations are important and should follow NICE guidance.
If GCS is <15: observations every 30 mins until GCS is 15
If GCS is =15: observations every 30 mins for 2 hours; then… every 1 hour for 4 hours; then… every 2 hours thereafter.
If any deterioration occurs then revert to half hourly observations and start the protocol again.
Further Reading
- NICE Guidance: Head injury: assessment and early management
