The strength of the skull is sufficient to protect the head from injury in a minor fall or a light blow to the head. If stronger forces are involved, e.g. from falling onto the head from a height, or being kicked by a horse, the skull may crack or fracture.

1. FIRST AID FOR HEAD INJURIES
The brain is composed of soft tissue and is protected by the skull, which is a strong, outer
framework. The strength of the skull is sufficient to protect the head from injury in a minor
fall or a light blow to the head. If stronger forces are involved, e.g. from falling onto the head
from a height, or being kicked by a horse, the skull may crack or fracture.
Concussion occurs when the brain is shaken violently inside the skull. This results in the
brain striking the inside of the skull, resulting in bleeding or swelling and bruising. There
may be no outer sign of injury, but the damage to the brain is recognized by changes in
behavior caused by increased pressure within the skull.
Compression of the brain is a serious condition in which internal pressure can cause further
injury. The pressure may be caused by a skull fracture, a collection of blood, a tumour or
infection. Clear or blood-stained fluid may be seen leaking from the ear or nose and urgent
admission to a hospital is required.
Symptoms and signs:
• Altered conscious state, often deteriorating over time
• Blurred or double vision
• A thumping or pounding headache

2. • Nausea or vomiting
• Loss of balance and hand-eye coordination
• Altered sensation in the fingers or down one side of the body
• Loss of short-term memory, e.g. the memory of recent events
• Noisy breathing
• A slow but strong pulse
• Unequal pupils
• Leaking fluid from the nose or one ear
Step by Step First Aid Procedure for Head Injuries:
Assess the victim
• Assess the victim’s conscious state.
• If unconscious and breathing normally, or not fully conscious and alert, place the victim in
the recovery position, preferably with the injured side downwards. If there is any discharge
from the ear, place a sterile or clean pad underneath, but do not pack the ear canal.

3. • Check every few minutes that the airway is clear and normal breathing is present. Be
prepared to begin CPR if deterioration occurs — see Resuscitation.
• If conscious, help the victim to rest in the position of greatest comfort, preferably with the
head higher than the rest of the body.
Step: 2
Give care until arrival of the ambulance
• Cover any wound with a sterile dressing.
• If there is any discharge from the ear or nose, cover the area with a sterile dressing.

4. Note: Do not pack the ear or nose with dressings because this can introduce infection and
may
increase the pressure on the brain.
Follow the next steps by reading our first aid kit hand book.