Question

A 67-year-old on apixaban falls and strikes his head. He is alert, has a normal neurologic examination, and denies loss of consciousness. What is the appropriate ED imaging strategy?

Accepted Answer

Obtain a noncontrast head CT because he is anticoagulated

Answer

Apply the Canadian CT Head Rule (CCHR) and avoid CT if low risk

Answer

Observe in the ED without imaging

Answer

Order skull radiographs

Answer

Use New Orleans Criteria to avoid CT in anticoagulated patients

Practice question

A 67-year-old on apixaban falls and strikes his head. He is alert, has a normal neurologic examination, and denies loss of consciousness. What is the appropriate ED imaging strategy?