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Rapid Assessment Of Adults With Traumatic Brain Injuries, Pedro Colio

Doctor of Nursing Practice Final Manuscripts

The aim of this evidence-based project was to improve the medical screening process, enhance medical decision-making, and standardized the utilization of an adult traumatic brain injury neuroimaging guideline among advanced practice providers in a rural emergency department. Neuroimaging, specifically computed tomography (CT) scans, help to identify life-threatening intracranial injuries when clinically appropriate. The literature supports the utilization of neuroimaging guidelines, clinical exam, and provider expertise when identifying the need for a head CT scan. Although head CT scans are clinically useful, they increase healthcare costs and pose potential cancer risks from radiation exposure. Eight advanced practice providers (i.e., nurse practitioners, …