Clinical Policy: Critical Issues in the Management of Adult Patients Presenting to the Emergency Department with Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
Clinical Policy: Critical Issues in the Management of Adult Patients Presenting to the Emergency Department with Mild Traumatic Brain Injury is organized by American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP).
Release: 7/5/23
Expires March 31, 2026
Description:
This activity is based on the ACEP Clinical Policy: Clinical Policy: Critical Issues in the Management of Adult Patients Presenting to the Emergency Department with Mild Traumatic Brain Injury. Members who participate in this CME activity will learn: Which clinical decision tools provide decision support and improve head CT utilization in adults with minor head injury. Patients presenting with minor head injury, a normal baseline neurological examination, and taking an anticoagulant or antiplatelet medication are safe for discharge after a single head CT. Which clinical risk factors assist in identifying patients requiring follow-up care for postconcussive syndrome or delayed sequelae after ED discharge?
Objectives:
- Use clinical decision tools to provide decision support and improve head CT utilization in adults with minor head injuries.
- Consider providing concussion-specific discharge instructions and selected outpatient referrals for patients with the following potential risk factors: female sex; previous pre-concussive psychiatric history; GCS score <15; etiology of assault; acute intoxication; LOC; preinjury psychological history such as anxiety/depression.