Varneys Midwifery Test Bank Related

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While reviewing the head CT scan of a patient following a motor vehicle accident, the AGACNP appreciates a crescent-shaped fluid collection. This most likely represents

  • A. Acute subdural hematoma
  • B. Acute epidural hematoma
  • C. Acute uncal herniation
  • D. Acute brainstem compression
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: A crescent-shaped fluid collection on a head CT scan typically represents an acute subdural hematoma. Acute subdural hematomas result from the tearing of bridging veins that lie between the dura mater and arachnoid mater layers of the meninges. This injury often occurs due to significant head trauma, such as a motor vehicle accident. As blood accumulates within the potential space between the dura and arachnoid layers, it forms a crescent-shaped collection that can compress the underlying brain tissue, leading to symptoms such as altered mental status, headache, focal neurological deficits, and signs of increased intracranial pressure. Treatment may involve surgical intervention to evacuate the hematoma and relieve the pressure on the brain.