What is a common sign of a skull fracture?

A common sign of a skull fracture is Battle's sign, which presents as bruising over the mastoid process, typically behind the ear. This sign is indicative of a basilar skull fracture and occurs due to the accumulation of blood in the soft tissues covering the temporal bone. When there is a fracture in this area, blood vessels can be damaged, leading to the characteristic bruising.

This sign is particularly important in clinical assessments because it can help medical professionals identify the severity and potential complications associated with the injury. In contrast, while confusion, amnesia, and nausea may be associated with head injuries in general, they are less specific indicators of a skull fracture. Battle's sign provides direct evidence of trauma to the skull and underlying structures, making it a key clinical finding in such cases.