Red Cross Lifeguard Practice Test

What should you do if a child has a head injury and is feeling dizzy?

1. Have the child sit and perform a secondary assessment

2. Ask the parent to take the child to the emergency room

3. Let the child lie down and wait for EMS

4. Provide stabilization while preparing to backboard

The correct answer is: Have the child sit and perform a secondary assessment

When a child sustains a head injury and exhibits symptoms such as dizziness, it's crucial to assess their condition carefully without further aggravating any potential injuries. Having the child sit and perform a secondary assessment is appropriate because it allows for monitoring their symptoms while keeping them stable. This approach helps in gathering more information about the child's vital signs, level of consciousness, and any other signs of distress or deterioration that may require immediate attention. Performing a secondary assessment includes checking for responsiveness, monitoring signs such as headaches or nausea, and assessing any visible injuries. This comprehensive evaluation helps determine if the child's condition is worsening, allowing for timely intervention. In contrast, merely asking the parent to take the child to the emergency room does not provide immediate support or assessment of the child's current condition. Allowing the child to lie down without stabilization could increase the risk of injuries if they were to move unexpectedly. Providing stabilization while preparing to backboard may be warranted in certain situations, particularly if there is a suspicion of spinal injury, but a head injury with dizziness primarily necessitates careful monitoring and assessment. This proactive and cautious approach ensures that the child receives appropriate care and that any necessary emergency services are activated based on the findings from the secondary assessment.