1st April 2022

A 42-year-old woman is brought to A&E by ambulance, having been knocked off her bike by a car

A 42-year-old woman is brought to A&E by ambulance, having been knocked off her bike by a car. Bystanders report she was confused and amnesic immediately after the incident. In A&E, an urgent CT head is done, which shows inter-sulcal bleeding. On the way back from the scanner, she loses consciousness. 

Using the ABCDE assessment approach, what is the most immediate and life-threatening concern in this patient? 

Select the SINGLE most appropriate option from the list below. Select ONE option only.