Approaching the Patient with Traumatic Brain Injury: a First-contact Physician Approach

Abstract

Traumatic brain injury is a public health problem due to the high mortality and disability that it causes, especially in economically active groups. Its approach requires a quick medical assessment and timely onset of appropriate treatment to control primary injuries and their complications. The family physician has an important role in evaluating and managing an individual with skull trauma, as it constitutes the first contact of the patient with the health system. Traumatic brain injury may be a life-threatening emergency, however, the family physician may be the first contact in cases of skull trauma less severe, so it is necessary to maintain an updated knowledge of the most relevant aspects in the treatment of this condition. In this work, a review of the diagnosis and management of traumatic brain injury in primary care level is carried out, with the purpose of strengthening the formation of first contact physicians regarding this type of events.