Certified Neuroscience Registered Nurse (CNRN) Practice Exam

Subdural hematomas most commonly result from what type of bleeding?

1. Arterial bleeding

2. Venous bleeding

3. Capillary bleeding

4. Cerebral bleeding

The correct answer is: Venous bleeding

Subdural hematomas predominantly arise from venous bleeding, specifically from the bridging veins that span the subdural space. When trauma occurs, these bridging veins can be compromised, typically due to acceleration-deceleration injuries, such as those seen in falls or motor vehicle accidents. This type of bleeding is slower compared to arterial bleeding, which often leads to epidural hematomas and is characterized by a more immediate and aggressive presentation. In the case of venous bleeding, the blood tends to accumulate over a more extended period, which can result in a chronic subdural hematoma that may present days to weeks after the initial injury. The pathophysiology of subdural hematomas highlights the significance of venous structures and their susceptibility during traumatic incidents. Recognizing the nature of the bleeding and its source is crucial for appropriate diagnosis and management of brain injuries.