Word parts
What it means
Bleeding, usually from torn veins, into the space under the dura. An acute subdural hematoma follows a serious head injury and needs emergency care. A chronic one can build slowly over days to weeks after even a minor bump, especially in older adults and people who take anticoagulants or drink heavily, and its signs, such as headache, confusion or drowsiness, may be mistaken for dementia. Large ones are drained with surgery.
For the nurse
After any head injury, check level of consciousness, pupils and movement often, and report any decline. Ask older adults about recent falls, even minor ones.
Related terms
hematoma
A collection of blood, often clotted, that has leaked out of the blood vessels into the tissue.
traumatic brain injury
Damage to the brain caused by an outside force, such as a blow or jolt to the head or an object entering the skull.
increased intracranial pressure
Pressure inside the skull that has risen above the normal range.