Traumatic injuries to the head and spine 2: nursing considerations

Trauma to the central nervous system can have devastating consequences for both the person who sustained the injury and his/her family/loved ones. This article first discusses pathophysiology in relation to altered cerebral haemodynamics and changes that occur after spinal injury. Following on from the underpinning theoretical perspectives, the article reviews the nursing care and management strategies required by patients who have sustained either a traumatic head injury or acute spinal injury, with the aim of controlling secondary injury, which is preventable. This ensures the patient will have the best possible prognosis and outcome.