Catherine A., 18

Catherine is the second-born in a family of five children and is currently a Form Three student at a day secondary school. Her education is partly supported by an annual bursary of KES 3,000. Her father is deceased, while her mother, despite having a physical disability, relies on irregular casual work to provide for the family whenever opportunities arise. Their limited income makes it difficult to consistently meet household, educational and unexpected medical expenses. Catherine is a disciplined, hardworking and respectful girl who relates well with her family, friends and teachers and remains committed to her education. On the day of the accident, Catherine was travelling on a motorcycle with three friends. While descending a steep road, the rider attempted to avoid a head-on collision with another motorcycle and lost control, causing the occupants to fall. Catherine was seated at the edge of the pillion and sustained the most significant injuries. She was subsequently taken to hospital for urgent assessment and treatment.

Catherine was assessed and managed for a mild head injury. She received supportive and therapeutic management, including ketorolac, ceftriaxone, metronidazole, mannitol, dexamethasone, among other medications. She showed good clinical improvement following the above management and is now clinically stable for discharge. She has been booked for a follow-up clinic.

Catherine sustained a mild head injury and soft tissue injuries following a road traffic accident. Her prognosis is generally good with appropriate treatment, adequate rest, pain management and follow-up. She should be monitored for worsening headache, repeated vomiting, confusion, excessive drowsiness, seizures or loss of consciousness, as these may indicate an evolving intracranial complication requiring urgent assessment. Her soft tissue injuries are expected to heal progressively, although pain, swelling and temporary limitation of activity may persist during recovery.