A nurse is admitting a patient with a subarachnoid hemorrhage and expects to administer which of the following medications to decrease intracranial pressure (ICP)?

Choice A rationale

Anhidrosis, or the inability to sweat normally, is a potential side effect of anticholinergic agents. These medications block the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that stimulates sweat glands among other functions. If a patient taking an anticholinergic agent for Parkinson’s disease experiences anhidrosis, they should report it to their healthcare provider as it can lead to overheating and heat stroke.
Choice B rationale
Tremors are a common symptom of Parkinson’s disease, and anticholinergic medications are often used to help control them. Therefore, while tremors should be monitored, they are not typically a side effect that needs to be reported unless they worsen or become unmanageable.
Choice C rationale
Drooling can be a symptom of Parkinson’s disease, but it is not typically a side effect of anticholinergic medications. In fact, these medications can sometimes cause dry mouth.
Choice D rationale
Rigidity, like tremors, is a common symptom of Parkinson’s disease. Anticholinergic medications can help manage rigidity, so it is not typically a side effect that needs to be reported unless it worsens.

Choice A rationale
Oxycodone is an opioid medication, not a nonopioid analgesic. It is used for the relief of moderate to severe pain but has a high potential for addiction and dependence.
Choice B rationale

Ibuprofen is a nonopioid analgesic. It belongs to a class of drugs known as nonsteroidal anti- inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and is commonly used to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and lower fever.
Choice C rationale
Fentanyl is a potent opioid pain medication. It is not a nonopioid analgesic. It is used for managing severe pain, often in people who have built up a resistance to other opioids.
Choice D rationale
Acetaminophen is a nonopioid analgesic. It is used to relieve mild to moderate pain from headaches, muscle aches, menstrual periods, colds and sore throats, toothaches, backaches, and reactions to vaccinations, and to reduce fever.