Healthsheet | Published February 16, 2009

First Aid: Head Injuries

A strong blow to the head may cause swelling and bleeding inside the skull. The resulting pressure can injure the brain (concussion). If you have any doubts identifying a concussion, have a healthcare provider check the victim.

Seek medical help if any of the following is true:

The victim loses consciousness.
The victim shows any of the following signs of concussion:
- confusion or inability to follow normal conversation
- dizziness or vision problems
- nausea or vomiting
- muscle weakness or loss of mobility
- memory loss

Call 911 immediately if the victim has any of the following:

Loss of consciousness
A depressed or spongy area in the skull, or visible bone fragments
Clear fluid in the ears or nose

While you wait for help:

Reassure the person.
Treat for shock by maintaining body temperature and keeping the victim calm. DON`T elevate the legs if you suspect a skull injury.
Provide rescue breathing or CPR, if needed.

1

Control Bleeding

Apply direct pressure to control bleeding. (Wear gloves or use other protection to avoid contact with victim's blood.)
Wash a minor surface injury with soap and water after the bleeding stops or is reduced.
Cover the wound with a clean dressing and bandage.

2

Ice Bumps and Bruises

Place a cold pack or ice on the injury to reduce swelling and pain. Placing a cloth between the injury and the ice pack helps prevent tissue damage from severe cold.

3

Observe the Victim

Watch for vomiting or changes in mood or alertness. If you notice changes, call for medical help. Signs of concussion may not appear for up to 48 hours.
Tell the person's partner, parent, or roommate about the injury so he or she can continue to observe the victim.

Stitches

If a cut is deep or continues to bleed, or the edges of skin do not stay together evenly, the wound may need to be closed with stitches, tape, or medical glue. All can help speed healing and reduce the risk of infection and the size of the scar. These may be especially important concerns with large wounds, and wounds on the head or other visible body parts.

If you think a wound may need medical care, visit a healthcare professional as soon as possible. If stitches are needed, they must be applied in the first few hours. A wound that is not properly closed is at risk of serious infection.