Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) Practice Exam

In the context of epidural hematomas, what does a CT scan typically reveal?

1. Star-shaped hemorrhage

2. Cloudy appearance of the brain

3. Lens-shaped mass

4. Fluid accumulation in ventricles

The correct answer is: Lens-shaped mass

In the case of epidural hematomas, a CT scan typically reveals a lens-shaped mass. This characteristic appearance arises because epidural hematomas occur between the inner surface of the skull and the outer layer of the dura mater, leading to a convex (lens-shaped) accumulation of blood. The nature of this bleeding, often resulting from trauma, contributes to the distinct shape rather than a flat or more irregular outline. The lens shape is crucial for differentiation from other types of hematomas, such as subdural hematomas, which typically appear crescent-shaped and can cross cranial sutures due to their location between the dura and the brain. Moreover, the CT scan may show the hematoma as hyperdense (appearing brighter) in comparison to the surrounding brain tissue, highlighting the acute nature of the hemorrhage. The other imaging findings related to brain pathology do not accurately describe epidural hematomas. For instance, a star-shaped hemorrhage is typically associated with more diffuse and complex bleeding patterns often seen in contusions or parenchymal bleeding, while fluid accumulation in the ventricles pertains to conditions like hydrocephalus. The cloudy appearance of the brain might indicate edema or meningitis but is not a hallmark of an epidural hematoma