What are 'red flags' to watch for in head injury assessments?

In the context of head injury assessments, 'red flags' refer to signs and symptoms that may indicate a more serious underlying condition that requires immediate medical attention. Severe headache, seizures, and confusion fall into this category because they can signify significant brain injury or complications such as intracranial hemorrhage.

Severe headache is often described as the worst headache ever experienced and could indicate a possible subarachnoid hemorrhage or other serious conditions. Seizures can suggest brain injury or irritation, and confusion or altered mental status could indicate cerebral trauma or pressure on the brain. These symptoms warrant further investigation and potentially urgent treatment to prevent long-term damage or life-threatening situations.

In contrast, the other options highlight symptoms that may be concerning but do not carry the same level of immediacy or severity as the 'red flags' in this context. Minor headaches and dizziness can be common and often do not point to serious conditions. Localized tenderness and swelling might suggest a contusion or minor injury but do not indicate a widespread or life-threatening issue. Short-term memory loss can occur, but when examined alongside more severe symptoms, it is less concerning than the critical signs highlighted in the correct answer.