Assessment and management of carotid artery trauma associated with mild head injury

Management of patients with trauma to the central nervous system is a challenge for the neuroscience nurse. When trauma to the carotid artery is present, the management of closed head injury becomes even more complex. Although the incidence of carotid artery dissection is small, the risks of morbidity and mortality are high. This article discusses the mechanism of injury, associated symptoms, and theories of management for victims of carotid artery injury associated with blunt craniocervical trauma. New assessment considerations for nursing diagnosis and intervention are provided.