Which intervention helps maintain the head position after a head injury?

Maintaining an appropriate head position after a head injury is crucial to minimize intracranial pressure and to ensure adequate cerebral circulation. Keeping the head of the bed (HOB) elevated at 30 degrees is considered an optimal intervention in this scenario. This angle helps to promote venous drainage from the brain, reducing the risk of increased intracranial pressure and promoting better oxygenation to brain tissues.

Elevating the head at this angle also helps in preventing complications such as aspiration, especially if the patient is unconscious or has a compromised gag reflex. Furthermore, the 30-degree angle strikes a balance between reducing pressure and maintaining adequate perfusion; elevations beyond this may inadvertently lead to increased risk of complications in some patients.

In contrast, positioning on the side might not provide stable support and could lead to other complications, such as aspiration or impaired cerebral blood flow. Encouraging coughing is generally contraindicated in head injury patients as it can increase intracranial pressure. Elevating the head at 45 degrees may be too steep for some patients, potentially leading to discomfort and increased risk for complications, particularly in those with specific head injuries that require more precise positioning.