Coma

A patient is typically considered comatose when they do not open their eyes and do not respond to stimulation. They should be transported by an ambulance and brought to a major trauma center that follows the BTF Guidelines.

Treatment for a coma includes:

• Initial Treatment — Treatment begins as soon as the patient is in the ambulance and in the Emergency room and includes resuscitation, stabilization and supportive care. ABC principles are followed from the moment of the TBI- Airway, Breathing and Circulation.

• Acute Treatment — The goals are to reduce secondary brain injury and include medical ventilation, brain pressure monitoring and treatment to maintain oxygen and blood flow to the brain.

• Surgical Treatment — Surgery is needed in some cases to evacuate blood clots or to decompress the brain.