Head injuries can change everything in an instant. In this episode, we break down head and skull trauma, including traumatic brain injuries, skull fractures, and why bleeding or swelling inside the skull can quickly become life-threatening.
Mike, Max, and Jonathon discuss mechanisms of injury, signs of increased intracranial pressure, and the importance of identifying subtle neurological changes early. From coup-contrecoup injuries to recognizing deteriorating mental status, this episode emphasizes assessment priorities that help prevent secondary brain injury.
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Episode Breakdown
00:00 – Intro, episode setup, and overview of head trauma
28:35 – Medical Term of the Week: Cushing’s Triad
37:20 – Anatomy review: skull, brain, and protective structures
55:10 – Mechanisms of injury and traumatic brain injury concepts
01:18:40 – Skull fractures, bleeding, and intracranial pressure
01:43:55 – Patient assessment priorities and reassessment
01:56:20 – Tools of the Trade: Penlight for pupil assessment
02:06:30 – Student Tip of the Week: Test Prep Questions
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⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.
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