An adolescent boy is brought to the emergency department after a motorcycle accident. His respirations are deep, periodic, and gasping. There are extreme fluctuations in blood pressure. Pupils are dilated and fixed. The nurse should suspect which type of head injury?

A) Brainstem
B) Skull fracture
C) Subdural hemorrhage
D) Epidural hemorrhage

Brainstem Injury

Damage to the brainstem, which can lead to critical issues like altered consciousness, difficulties in breathing, and compromised heart function.

Subdural Hemorrhage

A type of bleeding that occurs beneath the dura mater of the brain, often resulting from traumatic injury, leading to pressure on brain tissues.

Epidural Hemorrhage

Bleeding between the inner surface of the skull and the dura mater, often resulting from traumatic injury and potentially leading to increased intracranial pressure.