Head, Neck, and Spine Injuries

Head Trauma

What is it?

Any damage to the scalp, skull, or brain caused by injury.

Plan of Action:

To give first aid to a person who has head trauma, call 911 or your local emergency number. 
While waiting for emergency medical help to arrive:
Head trauma that results in concussion symptoms need to be evaluated by a medical professional. Concussion symptoms include nausea, unsteadiness, headaches or difficulty concentrating.
Any of the following symptoms may indicate a serious head injury:

Headache

What is it?

A painful sensation in any part of the head, ranging from sharp to dull, that may occur with other symptoms.
Most headaches are minor, and you can treat them with a pain reliever. Some headaches, however, signal a dangerous or serious medical problem. Don't ignore headaches that aren't explained or headaches that steadily worsen.

Symptoms:

Get immediate medical attention if your headache:
Immediate medical attention also is needed if your headache occurs with new:
Also seek medical attention if your headache:
 

Spinal Injury

What is it?

An injury to the spine.

Signs/Symptoms:

Assume a person has a spinal injury if:

Plan of Action:

Concussions

What is it?

A type of head injury that occurs when the head or body is hit so hard that the brain moves inside the skull.

Signs/Symptoms:

Plan of Action: