Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 13, 2026
A Multi-Modal Approach to Assessing Recovery in Youth Athletes Following Concussion
Published on: September 25, 2014
Rapid physical assessment of the injured child
1Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239, USA. steelmar@ohsu.edu
Insights
Pediatric maxillofacial trauma can involve multisystem or brain injuries. Dental professionals should identify and refer children with concerning neurologic symptoms for medical evaluation.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric dentistry
- Trauma surgery
- Neurology
Background:
- Traumatic injuries to the dentition and maxillofacial region in children can be isolated or part of multisystem injuries, including traumatic brain injuries.
- The primary trauma survey focuses on immediate life-threatening conditions, while the secondary survey involves a comprehensive examination post-stabilization.
Observation:
- Frequent neurologic and physical assessments are vital for monitoring pediatric patients with maxillofacial trauma.
- Dental professionals play a key role in recognizing potential neurologic compromise.
Findings:
- Patients with maxillofacial trauma require vigilant assessment for associated neurologic deficits.
- Early identification of concerning neurologic signs and symptoms is critical.
Implications:
- Dental professionals must be prepared to identify and refer pediatric patients with maxillofacial trauma who exhibit neurologic signs.
- This collaborative approach ensures timely medical evaluation and management, potentially preventing deterioration.
Abstract:
Traumatic injuries that involve the dentition and maxillofacial region may occur as isolated events in pediatric patients but are often associated with multisystem injuries and traumatic brain injuries. The primary trauma survey serves to identify and treat life-threatening injuries. The secondary trauma survey is a complete examination of the patient after the stabilization of physiological parameters. Frequent neurologic and physical assessments of the injured child are crucial to preventing deterioration. The role of the dental professional is to identify and refer for medical evaluation patients who present with concerning neurologic signs and symptoms after traumatic injuries to the maxillofacial region.
Related Concept Videos
01:27Physical Assessment of the Respiratory Tract II: Inspection
Chest Configuration
The chest configuration can...
01:11Assessment of radial pulse
The radial pulse, located at the wrist, is often the preferred site for assessing peripheral pulse because of its accessibility and dependability. The process of determining the radial pulse involves several steps:
01:23Assessment of Respiration
Subjective Assessment: Nurses interview the patient to gather information directly during the subjective assessment. It includes questions about the individual's medical history, medications, and symptoms, focusing on past respiratory conditions like asthma or COPD,...
01:05Data Collection III
The principles to begin the physical assessment include conducting a comprehensive or problem-related history in a quiet, well-lit room, emphasizing privacy and comfort for the patient.
01:24Physical Assessment of the Respiratory Tract II: Palpation
Thoracic Palpation
Thoracic palpation detects tenderness, masses, lesions, respiratory excursions, and vocal fremitus. The nurse assesses...
01:25Assessment of apical radial pulse
The A-R pulse assessment involves simultaneous evaluation of the apical and radial pulses. When the apical and radial pulse rates vary, this assessment helps identify a pulse deficit.
Pre-Procedural Preparation