A patient who has had traumatic brain injury enters the emergency department, and receives a Glasgow Coma Scale score of 6. What should the therapist do for this patient at this time?

A. Provide oxygenation only.
B. Oxygenate and maintain bronchial hygiene.
C. Secure the airway, intubate, and mechanically ventilate.
D. Secure the airway, oxygenate, and perform bronchial hygiene.

ANS: C
A. Incorrect response: See explanation C.
B. Incorrect response: See explanation C.
C. Correct response: The Glasgow Coma Scale is based on three indicators of cerebral function: eye opening, verbal communication, and motor responses to verbal and noxious stimuli. The score ranges from 15 (best) to 3 (worst). A score of 8 or less for someone who has experienced traumatic brain injury indicates the need for securing the airway, intubation, and mechanical ventilation.
D. Incorrect response: See explanation C.?