Answers SNHU
Q1. A 12-year-old develops headache, dizziness, and difficulty
concentrating after falling during cheerleading practice. What is the
most appropriate initial interpretation?
A) Loss of consciousness is required before concussion should be considered
B) The symptom pattern is compatible with concussion and requires clinical
assessment
C) Normal speech excludes mild traumatic brain injury
D) Symptoms occurring after a fall are most likely caused by dehydration
Correct Answer: B) The symptom pattern is compatible with concussion
and requires clinical assessment
Rationale: Concussion can cause physical, cognitive, emotional, and sleep-
related symptoms after a blow or jolt to the head or body. Loss of
consciousness is not required, so headache, dizziness, balance problems,
and concentration difficulty after trauma warrant assessment.
Q2. Which historical finding is NOT required for a diagnosis of
concussion?
A) A plausible mechanism of injury
B) New symptoms following the injury
C) Clinical evaluation consistent with mild traumatic brain injury
D) Loss of consciousness
Correct Answer: D) Loss of consciousness
Rationale: Many children with concussion never lose consciousness.
Diagnosis relies on the injury mechanism, symptoms, examination, and
clinical reasoning rather than requiring a period of unconsciousness.
Q3. Which symptom belongs primarily to the cognitive domain of
concussion?
A) Feeling mentally foggy and having difficulty concentrating
B) Nausea
C) Sensitivity to light
, D) Dizziness
Correct Answer: A) Feeling mentally foggy and having difficulty
concentrating
Rationale: Cognitive concussion symptoms include difficulty thinking
clearly, slowed processing, poor concentration, and memory problems.
Nausea, photophobia, headache, and dizziness are primarily physical
manifestations.
Q4. Why should a child with suspected concussion be asked about
previous concussions?
A) Previous concussion confirms the current diagnosis
B) Prior concussion prevents all future sports participation
C) A history of concussion can influence recovery risk and management
D) Previous concussions make neurologic examination unnecessary
Correct Answer: C) A history of concussion can influence recovery risk and
management
Rationale: Previous concussion is one factor that can affect symptom
burden and recovery. The number, timing, severity, and recovery from
previous injuries contribute important context when developing an
individualized management plan.
Q5. Which finding most strongly supports including balance
assessment during concussion evaluation?
A) Dizziness and unsteadiness after the injury
B) Mild nasal congestion
C) Normal appetite
D) A remote history of eczema
Correct Answer: A) Dizziness and unsteadiness after the injury
Rationale: Concussion can disrupt vestibular and balance function.
Reported dizziness or instability makes evaluation of gait, coordination,
balance, and associated neurologic findings particularly relevant.
Q6. A child initially appears well after a head injury but develops
symptoms several hours later. What is the best interpretation?