If a person with a head injury has a bloody fluid flowing from their ear, what should you do?

When confronted with a situation involving a person with a head injury who has bloody fluid leaking from their ear, activating EMS immediately and stabilizing the head is the most appropriate response. This scenario suggests a potential serious condition, such as a skull fracture, which can lead to complications such as increased intracranial pressure or brain injury.

Stabilizing the head is crucial as it helps to prevent further injury and reduce movement that could exacerbate any existing damage. By activating EMS right away, you ensure that the individual receives professional medical assistance as quickly as possible, which is vital in managing head injuries.

Other options may seem helpful but do not address the urgency of the situation effectively. For example, applying pressure to the ear might worsen any potential bleeding or fluid drainage that indicates a more severe injury. Asking questions to assess consciousness could take valuable time away from necessary actions and may not reflect the immediate need for medical attention. Providing water to drink is potentially hazardous; if the person is unconscious or semi-conscious, there is a risk of choking or aspiration. Therefore, prioritizing prompt medical assistance while ensuring the individual remains as still as possible is crucial.