What field treatment should be undertaken for a patient with TBI?

For a patient with a traumatic brain injury (TBI), the primary focus is on ensuring that they receive appropriate medical care as soon as possible. Evacuating the patient toward medical care is crucial because TBIs can lead to serious complications that may require advanced diagnostic imaging and intervention that is not available in the field.

Immediate surgery is often not possible in a wilderness setting and should be left to professional medical teams equipped to handle such procedures. Applying ice to the head can provide comfort but does not address the underlying issues related to a TBI, and it may not be suitable in all situations, as it could complicate assessments of the patient's condition. Administering medication for pain or other symptoms may be necessary in some cases, but it also needs to be done with caution and cannot replace the need for specialized medical evaluation.

Thus, evacuating the patient toward professional medical assistance ensures they receive the appropriate care for managing and monitoring their condition after a TBI. This response aligns with wilderness first responder protocols, which prioritize stabilization and swift transport in the case of severe injuries.