Final answer:
Clear, watery drainage from the ear of a patient with a head injury may indicate a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak. The examiner should assess for other signs of a CSF leak and refer the patient to a healthcare professional for further evaluation and management.
Step-by-step explanation:
Clear, watery drainage from the ear of a patient with a head injury may indicate a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak. CSF is a clear fluid that surrounds and protects the brain and spinal cord. The leakage can occur when there is a fracture in the skull base or a tear in the membrane surrounding the brain.
If a patient has clear, watery drainage from the ear, it is important for the examiner to assess for other signs of a CSF leak, such as a history of head trauma, headache, or a salty or metallic taste in the mouth. The patient should be referred to a healthcare professional for further evaluation and management.
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