**Core Concept**
The diagnosis and management of traumatic brain injuries (TBI) require prompt and accurate imaging. Computed tomography (CT) scans of the head are commonly used in the initial assessment of head trauma due to their speed, availability, and ability to detect acute hemorrhages and fractures.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct criteria for a CT head in trauma include:
- **Altered mental status**: A change in the patient's level of consciousness or confusion can indicate a potential brain injury.
- **Severe headache**: A severe headache can be a symptom of an epidural hematoma or other intracranial hemorrhage.
- **Focal neurological deficit**: Weakness, numbness, or paralysis of a limb can indicate a focal brain injury.
- **GCS ≤ 14**: A Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score of 14 or less indicates a significant level of impairment.
- **Penetrating head injury**: Any injury that penetrates the skull, such as a gunshot wound, requires a CT head to assess for intracranial injury.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Not provided
**Option B:** Not provided
**Option C:** Not provided
**Option D:** Not provided

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
In the context of head trauma, the "5 Ps" can help guide the decision to obtain a CT head: **Progressive deterioration**, **Papilledema**, **Pupillary asymmetry**, **Posturing**, and **Pulselessness**.

**Correct Answer:** None provided