HEAD INJURY

Most head injuries hurt only the scalp, not the brain. You might have a big lump even if it was a minor injury because there is a large blood supply to the scalp. For the same reason small cuts on the head may bleed a lot. Only 1% to 2% of injured people have a skull fracture. If the person has a concussion they will pass out, act very confused, or cannot remember what happened.

How can I take care of head injury?

• Wound care. Call the doctor right away if the skin is split open and might need stitches. Wash any minor scrapes with soap and water. Apply pressure with a clean cloth (sterile gauze if you have it) for 10 minutes to stop any bleeding. For any small cuts, apply antibiotic ointment (Neosporin) twice a day until healed. For swelling, apply a cold pack or ice bag for 20 minutes. This will also reduce pain.
• Rest. Encourage the injured person to lie down and rest until all symptoms are gone (or for at least 2 hours). It is okay for them to sleep. You don't have to try to keep him awake. Just have them sleep nearby so you can check on them from time to time.
• Diet. Give only clear fluids (ones you can see through) until the person has gone 2 hours without vomiting.
• Pain medicines. Give acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil), as needed for pain relief. Wait 2 hours to be sure the injured person isn’t going to vomit from the head injury
• Special precautions. Watch them closely for symptoms. Do this for 2 days and nights. After that, go back to a normal routine.

Call the doctor right away if:

• The skin is split open and might need stitches.
• The headache becomes severe.
• Vomiting occurs 2 or more times.
• Vision becomes blurred or double.
• It's difficult to awaken them.
• They are confused.
• Has trouble walking or talking.
• Symptoms get worse in any other way.