Who cares for head injuries?

Abstract

Patterns of management for head injury in the acute and late stages are reviewed in respect of both mild and severe injuries. Because so many disciplines are involved, continuity of care if often difficult to achieve; and no one discipline is concerned with planning for the care of head injuries in a strategic way. The needs of head-injured patients are defined and suggestions made for improving care by the reorganization of existing facilities. What is most needed is to concentrate on patients with head injuries, both in the acute and in the late stages. Only then can medical, nursing, and paramedical personnel become skilled in dealing with the many problems which such patients present.