When to request an immediate CT Scan

An immediate CT scan must happen within 1 hour of the request, if:

• GCS less than 13 at 1 hour from injury

• GCS less than 15 after 2 hours

• Open or depressed skull fracture (swipe left to reveal how to clinically investigate)

• Basal skull fracture – fracture isn’t clinically apparently (swipe left to reveal key indicators)

• ANY seizure reported following the injury

• Focal neurological deficit, which are problems restricted to a certain part of the body or a particular activity (eg difficulties with understanding, speaking, reading or writing; decreased sensation; loss of balance; general weakness; visual changes; abnormal reflexes; problems walking)

• More than one episode of vomiting since the injury – clear history taking from patient/family/paramedics/nursing staff as appropriate.