Which signs might indicate injury when assessing the ears?

Signs indicating injury when assessing the ears include drainage and Battle signs. Drainage can suggest a potential rupture in the eardrum or a fracture in the skull that may lead to cerebrospinal fluid leaking, both of which require immediate medical attention. Battle signs, which manifest as bruising behind the ear, can signal a skull fracture, particularly a temporal bone fracture, and also indicates potential serious head trauma.

Recognizing drainage and Battle signs is crucial in the lifeguard context as they can help determine the severity of an injury and the need for urgent medical intervention. The presence of these signs underscores the importance of a thorough head and ear assessment in the event of an injury to ensure proper treatment and prevent further complications.