It is important to document for medicolegal reasons the clinical rationale behind performing (or more importantly, not performing) investigations and clearing patients for discharge. Here are templates for some common scenarios.
Concussion / Minor Headstrike (no red flags)
With shared decision making, patient is agreeable to the decision against having a CT Brain (for the time being), as the risk of radiation (such as cataracts, and cancer) is likely greater than the likelihood of finding something that would warrant neurosurgery, such as a brain bleed. Patient is aware that there is always the possibility of a slow (eg Subdural haematoma) or fast (eg extradural haematoma) bleed that may cause deterioration in the future. I have advised the patient to represent to ED should there be a deterioration with worsening pain, persistent nausea/vomiting, difficulty/unsteadiness walking, or any concerns – there should be a low threshold for imaging should this patient represents (or if patient presents to another healthcare provider.). In the longer term, an MRI is reasonable if mild symptoms persist. Patient is advised to seek GP review if mild symptoms persist.
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