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.     

Infections related to intracranial pressure monitoring

Infection related to the placement of intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring systems has been examined closely by practitioners. Review of the literature identifies many factors contributing to infection. In this two-year retrospective study of 52 patients who underwent ICP monitoring, 12 variables were studied: diagnosis, type of monitor, date and place of insertion, duration of monitoring, drainage, frequency of system change or irrigation and personnel involved, dressing changes, range of patient temperatures, culture results, concurrent infections and antibiotic therapy. Practices that minimized infection rates in our patient population are identified as well as implications for nursing practice and quality assurance measures for ICP monitoring.