NREMT Paramedic Practice

What is the treatment approach for patients with severe diffuse axonal injury (DAI)?

1. Immediate surgery

2. Routine observation

3. Preventing hypoxia

4. Fluid resuscitation

The correct answer is: Preventing hypoxia

The treatment approach for patients with severe diffuse axonal injury (DAI) focuses significantly on preventing hypoxia. DAI is characterized by widespread damage to the axons in the brain, which can lead to significant neurological impairment. One of the critical aspects of management in these patients is ensuring adequate oxygenation and perfusion to the brain. Preventing hypoxia is essential because the brain is highly sensitive to low oxygen levels, which can exacerbate the existing injury and lead to further complications. Maintaining adequate ventilation, monitoring oxygen saturation, and ensuring that blood pressure is optimized are pivotal components of care in the acute setting. While other interventions like surgery or fluid resuscitation may be relevant in different contexts or in handling complications, they are not primary treatments for DAI itself. Observation alone does not address the immediate life-threatening risks associated with hypoxia. Therefore, actively preventing hypoxia stands out as the most appropriate and critical approach in managing patients with severe diffuse axonal injury.