Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) Practice Exam

Palpitations are not typically associated with head injuries. In a clinical context, they refer to an awareness of the heartbeat that can be related to cardiovascular issues or anxiety rather than directly resulting from trauma to the head.

In contrast, symptoms like rhinorrhea, visual disturbances, and periorbital edema are often directly linked to head injuries. Rhinorrhea, which is a clear fluid coming from the nose, can suggest cerebrospinal fluid leakage, indicating a more severe injury such as a skull fracture. Visual disturbances may occur due to direct trauma to the eyes or areas of the brain responsible for vision, leading to blurred vision, double vision, or other visual impairments. Periorbital edema, or swelling around the eyes, is commonly seen in cases of head trauma, particularly when there is bruising or injury to the surrounding soft tissues. Understanding the typical symptoms associated with head injuries is crucial for proper assessment and management in emergency situations.