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The use of antioxidants in the treatment of traumatic brain injury
Author(s) -
Venegoni Whitney,
Shen Qiuhua,
Thimmesch Amanda R.,
Bell Meredith,
Hiebert John B.,
Pierce Janet D.
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
journal of advanced nursing
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.948
H-Index - 155
eISSN - 1365-2648
pISSN - 0309-2402
DOI - 10.1111/jan.13259
Subject(s) - traumatic brain injury , coenzyme q10 , medicine , traumatic injury , brain damage , cinahl , intensive care medicine , physiology , surgery , psychiatry , psychological intervention
Aims The aim of this study was to discuss secondary traumatic brain injury, the mitochondria and the use of antioxidants as a treatment. Background One of the leading causes of death globally is traumatic brain injury, affecting individuals in all demographics. Traumatic brain injury is produced by an external blunt force or penetration resulting in alterations in brain function or pathology. Often, with a traumatic brain injury, secondary injury causes additional damage to the brain tissue that can have further impact on recovery and the quality of life. Secondary injury occurs when metabolic and physiologic processes alter after initial injury and includes increased release of toxic free radicals that cause damage to adjacent tissues and can eventually lead to neuronal necrosis. Although antioxidants in the tissues can reduce free radical damage, the magnitude of increased free radicals overwhelms the body's reduced defence mechanisms. Supplementing the body's natural supply of antioxidants, such as coenzyme Q10, can attenuate oxidative damage caused by reactive oxygen species. Design Discussion paper. Data sources Research literature published from 2011–2016 in PubMed, CINAHL and Cochrane. Implications for nursing Prompt and accurate assessment of patients with traumatic brain injury by nurses is important to ensure optimal recovery and reduced lasting disability. Thus, it is imperative that nurses be knowledgeable about the secondary injury that occurs after a traumatic brain injury and aware of possible antioxidant treatments. Conclusion The use of antioxidants has potential to reduce the magnitude of secondary injury in patients who experience a traumatic brain injury.