New Orleans / Charity Head CT Rule
Identifies adults with minor head injury (GCS = 15, LOC) who require CT head. More sensitive but less specific than Canadian CT Head Rule. ANY criterion positive → CT required.
Score interpretation
No criteria met. CT head not indicated for this minor head injury.
→ Discharge with written head injury advice. Return if: worsening headache, vomiting, confusion, weakness, or seizure.
One or more criteria met. CT head is indicated.
→ Perform CT head. If normal: discharge with head injury instructions. If abnormal: neurosurgical referral. Sensitivity ~100% for intracranial injury.
Interpretation bands for the New Orleans CT Rule. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
References
- Haydel MJ, et al. Indications for computed tomography in patients with minor head injury. N Engl J Med. 2000;343(2):100–105.
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
- Cetuximab · Anti-EGFR Monoclonal Antibody — Head and Neck Cancer
- Cisplatin · Platinum Chemotherapy — Head and Neck Cancer
- Methotrexate · Chemotherapy / Immunosuppressant — Head and Neck / Granulomatosis
- Pembrolizumab (Head and Neck SCC) · PD-1 Inhibitor
- Nivolumab (Head and Neck SCC) · PD-1 Inhibitor
- Cyclizine (Nausea and Vomiting in Pregnancy) · Antihistamine Antiemetic — Hyperemesis Gravidarum
- Acute Stroke / TIA Assessment · NICE NG128; RCP Stroke Guidelines 2023
- Status Epilepticus (Adults) · NICE CG137; ESEM guidelines; RCP Neurology Guidelines
- Suspected Subarachnoid Haemorrhage · NICE NG228; RCEM 2023; AHA/ASA 2023
- Adult Head Injury · NICE NG232 (2023)
- Bell's Palsy / Facial Nerve Palsy · ENT UK 2017; AAN
- Vertigo Workup · ENT UK; NICE CKS
Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.