A patient is admitted after a blow to the head and develops bruising behind the ear. Which finding should the nurse suspect?

Correct answer: A. Battle sign indicating a basilar skull fracture

  • A. Battle sign indicating a basilar skull fracture
  • B. Mastoid tenderness indicating a middle-ear infection
  • C. Periorbital oedema indicating an allergic reaction
  • D. Neck stiffness indicating a cervical muscle strain

Explanation

Battle sign is bruising over the mastoid area and may indicate a basilar skull fracture. It requires urgent neurological observation because associated bleeding or cerebrospinal fluid leakage may occur.

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