Concussion? What should I do?

[ebrown2210]

A kid I'm babysitting (male, 11 years) flipped and hit his head on the street. I
literally had to hold him up and carry him to the car to lay down. He can now
walk (well stumble) but he says his headache has gotten worse. He's nausea has
gone down a little bit too, though.  Also when a light is flashed in his eyes
only one pupil dilates. He wants to go to sleep but I'm afraid to let him. What
should I do?

[Bridget A. Hewitt, RN]

Well, unfortunately I didn't get to read this post until today, but in this type of situation, you call an ambulance immediately.  Also, unless he is in absolute physical danger (such as being hit by a car in the street) never move an accident victim.  You can actually do more damage if there is a head or neck injury.  After calling an ambulance, you then call the childs parents and let them know exactly what happened.  These things are accidents and can happen at any time, so just be honest and tell them the situation.  You are much better off to be more cautious (by calling an ambulance) then not cautious enough (and having something happen to the child).  Take care,

Bridget

[allmymarbles]

Call his parents. It sounds like he should go to the ER.

[Samc113]

deffentaly should go to hospital and i would not let him sleep untill its been cheaked out