What is a major concern when treating a patient with a head injury?

When treating a patient with a head injury, the potential for increased intracranial pressure (ICP) and airway compromise is a major concern because both can lead to serious and life-threatening complications. Increased ICP can result from swelling or bleeding in the brain, which may compress brain tissues and impair their function. This condition can also lead to herniation, which may put pressure on vital brain structures that control basic life functions.

Airway compromise is another critical issue. Patients with head injuries may have altered levels of consciousness, which can impair their ability to maintain their own airway. An inability to protect the airway can lead to respiratory failure or aspiration, which can be fatal if not addressed promptly. Therefore, assessing and managing these risks is essential in the care of a head injury patient to ensure proper oxygenation and brain perfusion.

The other options may present issues that are less immediate or less critical compared to the risks associated with increased ICP and potential airway compromise. For example, loss of consciousness is a significant symptom but primarily serves as an indicator of the underlying complications rather than a direct concern in treatment. The presence of a skull fracture could indicate a serious injury, yet it does not automatically equate to the same level of concern as the potential for increased ICP