Primary prevention

This chapter reviews the common prevention strategies and their overall effectiveness in this patient population, with an emphasis on the need for further preventative measures. Primary prevention efforts are designed to prevent the initial injury. Examples of primary prevention include screening tests, fall-proofing homes, traffic laws and their enforcement, salting of ice-covered roads, and education on topics such as the dangers of driving while impaired. The Haddon Matrix is a model that facilitates the identification of injury risk factors. The maintenance of health as it refers to traumatic brain injury requires a comprehensive approach. A comprehensive approach to injury control, including active and passive measures, education at both the community and individual level, and appropriate legislation is the most efficacious way to facilitate injury prevention. Recreation and sport-related emergency department visits are on the rise, especially from equestrian sports and activities.