Head Injuries and Associated Risks Consider what the implications of a reduced conscious level may be for the well-being and health of a patient. The National Institute for Health and Clinical...

Head Injuries and Associated Risks Consider what the implications of a reduced conscious level may be for the well-being and health of a patient. The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) in 2003 published guidelines for the management of head injuries. In their guidance, they recommend that patients with a GCS less than or equal to 8 should be referred immediately for management of their airway and breathing. Patients with a reduced consciousness level will have a significant risk of obstruction of the airway and aspiration. Their capacity to breath will also be affected. Using your experience of different hospital environments, consider which settings would be the most appropriate for a patient with a reduced conscious level.