In this chapter you will learn about the following: Describe the basic structure of the legal system in the United States, relate how laws affect the paramedic’s practice, list situations that a paramedic is legally required to report in most states, describe the four elements involved in a claim of negligence, describe measures paramedics may take to protect themselves from claims of negligence. | 9/11/2012 1 Chapter 40 Head, Face, and Neck Trauma 2 Learning Objectives • Describe the mechanisms of injury, assessment, and management of maxillofacial injuries. • Describe the mechanisms of injury, assessment, and management of ear, eye, and dental injuries. • Describe the mechanisms of injury, assessment, and management of anterior neck trauma. 3 Copyright © 2013 by Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC, an Ascend Learning Company 1 9/11/2012 Learning Objectives • Describe the mechanisms of injury, assessment, and management of injuries to the scalp, cranial vault, or cranial nerves. • Distinguish between types of traumatic brain injury based on an understanding of pathophysiology and assessment findings. 4 Learning Objectives • Outline the prehospital management of the patient with cerebral injury. • Calculate a Glasgow Coma Scale, trauma score, Revised Trauma Score, and pediatric trauma score when given appropriate patient information. 5 Maxillofacial Injury • In descending order of frequency, major causes of maxillofacial trauma are – – – – – – Motor vehicle crashes Home injuries Athletic injuries Animal bites Intentional violent acts Industrial injuries • Maxillofacial trauma may include soft tissue injuries and facial fractures 6 Copyright © 2013 by Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC, an Ascend Learning Company 2 9/11/2012 Soft Tissue Injuries • Face receives blood supply from branches of internal and external carotid arteries – Branches provide rich vascular supply – Soft tissue injuries to face often appear serious – With exception of compromised upper airway and potential for heavy bleeding, damage to tissues of maxillofacial area is seldom life threatening 7 8 9 Copyright © 2013 by Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC, an Ascend Learning Company 3 9/11/2012 Soft Tissue Injuries • Depending on mechanism of injury, facial trauma may range from minor cuts and abrasions to more serious injuries – .
