Author: rebecca isles

Primary Intracerebral Haemorrhage

In anybody who there is suspicion of a non-traumatic haemorrhage arrange an urgent CT Head.

All patients need IV access and  U&E, FBC, Coag

If CT confirms PICH (not traumatic, not SAH): –

Anticoagulation

If anticoagulated with warfarin or NOAC discuss with stroke consultant and Haematologist regarding reversal

If not anticoagulated give Tranexamic acid – 1g in 100mls Saline/Glucose over 10 mins followed by 1g in 250mls Saline over 6 hours.

Blood Pressure

BP needs to be <150/80 – use labetalol (max 400mg – until BP <160 or HR <50) and GTN infusion

Neurosurgical Referral

Not all patients with intracerebral bleeds need referral to neurosurgery – you could save yourself and your patient a lot of time and effort!

Those to refer:

  • GCS 9-12/15 with lobar haemorrhage
  • Isolated intraventricual haemorrhage
  • Hydrocephalus on presentation
  • Rapid deterioration following arrival (gcs drop by 2 points or more in the motor component)
  • Cerebellar bleed

Admit those not going to Neurosurgery to HASU at CRH after discussion with Stroke team

Adris Razaq

 

Emergency Medicine Consultant and Deputy Director of Medical Education with an interest in Simulation and Ultrasound.

 

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