Head injuries in children.
Even though head injury in children is a major health problem facing our nation today, major advances have occurred in our understanding of the epidemiology, pathophysiology, symptomatology, and outcome of these patients. Basic scientists have also contributed to this body of knowledge by demonstrating some unique characteristics of the immature CNS and how it responds to injury. Recent evidence shows that overall mortality and morbidity associated with head injury is declining. Because most pediatric head injuries are nonoperable, it is believed that aggressive medical management to control ICP and prevent secondary injury is responsible for improved outcome. Public education, coupled with legislative support, should prove to be of further benefit.
Vernon-Levett
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D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D006259:Craniocerebral Trauma / Q000451:nursing* / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D009460:Neurologic Examination; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D010347:Patient Care Planning