Final answer:
The two priorities in treating Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) are to stabilize the patient immediately after the injury and prevent secondary brain injuries such as excitotoxicity with monitoring and supportive care.
Step-by-step explanation:
The two priorities in treating patients with Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) are to minimize the initial damage from the insult and prevent or mitigate secondary injuries such as excitotoxicity. Initial treatment focuses on stabilizing the patient, which includes ensuring that they have adequate oxygen and blood supply, are protected from further injury, and have normal intracranial pressure and adequate cerebral perfusion. Secondary treatment targets include monitoring the patient for signs of secondary injury like swelling and intracranial pressure changes, which can lead to further brain damage if not properly managed. Despite advancements in research, currently, no pharmaceutical interventions are available that effectively treat the secondary excitotoxic cascade that results from TBI. Care strategies instead focus on supportive care to manage symptoms and provide rehabilitation aimed at maximizing the patient's functional recovery.