# Concussion

Any person who has suffered loss of consciousness or an altered state of consciousness after a blow to the head should not return to their activity (eg sport) and should see a medical practitioner urgently. Signs and symptoms Some or all of the following may indicate concussion:

loss of consciousness

persistent headache

faintness, dizziness

confusion

loss of memory, particularly of the event

blurred vision

slurred speech

altered or abnormal responses to commands and touch

vomiting within a few hours after a head injury

wounds to the scalp or face.

What to do 1 Follow DRSABCD. 2 If the patient is conscious and no spinal injury is suspected, place the patient in a position of comfort (usually lying down) with their head and shoulders slightly raised. 3 Advise them to seek medical attention. 4 If the patient is unconscious and a neck or spinal injury is suspected, place the patient in the recovery position, carefully supporting the patient’s head and neck, and avoid twisting or bending during movement. 5 Call triple zero (000) for an ambulance. 6 Ensure the patient’s airway is clear and open. Keep the patient’s airway open by lifting their chin. DO NOT force if the face is badly injured.

Head injury 1 Control any bleeding with direct pressure at the point of bleeding. If you suspect the skull is fractured, use gentle pressure around the wound. 2 If blood or fluid comes from the ear, secure a sterile dressing lightly over the ear. Lie the patient on their injured side, if possible, to allow the fluid to drain. 3 Ensure an ambulance has been called, noting the patient’s condition so that you can report it to the paramedics.