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Which of the following patients with head trauma does not require admission?

1) An individual with alcohol intoxication
2) An individual with a Glasgow coma score < 9
3) An individual with the presence of rhinorrhea
4) An individual who cannot sleep

User Berramou
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

Among the patients listed, an individual who cannot sleep after head trauma might not require hospital admission, but evaluation of additional symptoms and overall clinical assessment is essential in making this decision.

Step-by-step explanation:

The patient with head trauma who does not require admission in the context of the provided options might be 'An individual who cannot sleep', given that insomnia is not a direct indication of severe head trauma. However, assessing the need for admission relies on a multitude of factors beyond the simple presence of a symptom. Evaluating for confounding factors such as alcohol intoxication is crucial because alcohol can obscure the clinical picture. Acute alcohol administration can decrease levels of alertness and may mask or mimic symptoms of head injury, potentially delaying diagnosis and management of a more serious condition. Individuals with a Glasgow Coma Score (GCS) < 9 require admission due to a high likelihood of severe brain injury. The presence of rhinorrhea could indicate a skull base fracture with cerebrospinal fluid leak which also necessitates admission and further evaluation. Inadequate sleep alone, although concerning, does not often necessitate admission unless it is accompanied by other more severe symptoms.

User Cedric Ziel
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