Neurological assessment after a head strike
RN OSCE practice station
Focused assessment · 2 min to read · 8 min to perform
A written station. Free to try, no sign-up.
The task
Kiran Adhikari is under ED observation after a bicycle fall with a head strike. His previous neurological record is available. Perform focused neurological assessment, complete the neurological record and communicate any concern. The patient is a manikin; address the patient and the examiner voices their answers and supplies findings. Dr Taylor Singh is reachable by phone. RN Alex Morgan is available.
What this station tests
- Document E, V and M components so the reason for a GCS change is visible.
- Equal pupils do not exclude a serious intracranial problem.
- Worsening headache, vomiting and reduced alertness after head injury require urgent review.
Sources for the clinical content
- Healthdirect: Head injuries
- ACSQHC: Recognising and Responding to Acute Deterioration Standard
- ANZCOR: First aid management of suspected spinal injury
An original practice scenario with invented patients. Not an exam question.