A patient is in the intensive care unit and has intercranial pressure (ICP) monitoring. The patient's ICP is 17 mmHg. The healthcare professional notes that the chart indicates the patient is now in stage 1 intracranial hypertension. What assessment finding does the professional associate with this condition?
A)Rapid spike in measured ICP
B)No significant change in ICP readings
C)Restlessness and subtle breathing and pupil changes
D)A widened pulse pressure and bradycardia

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In stage 1 intracranial hypertension, vasoconstriction and external compression of the venous system occur in an attempt to decrease the ICP. This compensatory mechanism may work well enough to keep the ICP at the same level. A rapid spike in the ICP would indicate a worsening condition because the ICP is already slightly high. Restlessness and subtle changes in pupils and respiratory pattern occur in Stage 2. A widened pulse pressure and bradycardia signify Stage 3.

A Patient Is in the Intensive Care Unit and Has