Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) Practice Exam

What is the normal recovery time for a concussion?

1. 2-3 hours

2. 24-48 hours

3. 72 hours

4. 1 week

The correct answer is: 24-48 hours

The normal recovery time for a concussion is indeed generally accepted to be within 24 to 48 hours. This timeframe reflects the typical duration for many individuals to begin to see significant improvements in symptoms after sustaining a mild traumatic brain injury, such as a concussion. It is important to understand that while symptoms often resolve within this timeframe for most people, recovery can vary based on numerous individual factors, including the severity of the concussion, the person's prior concussion history, and their overall health. Although some symptoms can persist and require longer recovery periods, 24 to 48 hours is a commonly referenced standard for initial recovery. The other time frames mentioned do not accurately represent the typical recovery expectations for most individuals experiencing a concussion. For instance, the options indicating recovery in 2-3 hours and 72 hours suggest a misunderstanding of the potential symptom duration; while some might feel better in a shorter time frame, substantial recovery usually takes longer. The one-week timeframe tends to imply a longer recovery which may be more typical for those with moderate to severe concussions or ongoing symptoms.