Head and Neck
Core concepts
Understand sport-related concussion, on-field assessment, cervical spine stabilization, facial fractures, auricular hematoma, epistaxis, dental trauma, and neck vascular injury. Know the SCAT evaluation principles, red flags, and graduated return-to-learn and return-to-sport progression. Loss of consciousness is not required for concussion; headache, confusion, imbalance, and visual symptoms are common. Cervical spine injury requires immobilization, airway management with in-line stabilization, and transport. Facial fractures may compromise the airway or vision and need urgent specialty involvement.
Traps
Never allow same-day return to play after suspected concussion, even if symptoms resolve quickly. Do not use outdated concussion grading scales to decide return; use individualized clinical assessment. A helmet does not prevent concussion. Epistaxis after facial trauma may indicate a serious fracture rather than simple mucosal bleeding. Auricular hematoma must be drained and compressed to prevent cauliflower ear; recheck for reaccumulation.
Worked example
A soccer player has a header collision, brief confusion, and resolves within 10 minutes. Rule of thumb: remove from play immediately, perform a sideline assessment, and begin a 24-hour symptom-limited stepwise progression only after medical clearance. Symptoms provoked by light aerobic activity mean returning to the previous step, not pushing through.