The nurse is caring for a patient with an acute brain injury. Which of the following sets of vital signs would concern the nurse about increasing intracranial pressure (ICP)?

T 92.5 F (33.6 C), BP 90/64, HR 80, RR 14, 02 Sat 97% Room Air

T 98.7 F (36.4 C), BP 220/46, HR 30, RR 6, O2 Sat 98% Room Air

T 98.6 F (37 C), BP 200/94, HR 90, RR 18, 02 Sat 100% Room Air

T 103.1 F (39.5 C), BP 82/50, HR 132, RR 30, O2 Sat 99% Room Air

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A. The low blood pressure (90/64) may indicate hypovolemia or shock but is not specific for ICP concerns.

B. This set of vital signs is concerning due to the extremely high blood pressure (220/46) combined with a very low heart rate (30) and low respiratory rate (6), which can indicate an autonomic response to increased ICP, potentially leading to Cushing's triad (hypertension, bradycardia, and irregular respirations).

C. Although the blood pressure is high (200/94), the heart rate is normal and the respiratory rate is stable, making this less alarming compared to option B.

D. The elevated temperature and abnormal heart rate (132) indicate potential fever and tachycardia, but the blood pressure (82/50) is low and does not directly indicate increased ICP.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Discussing over-the-counter drugs with the healthcare provider is essential, as they can interact with antiepileptic medications.

B. Discontinuing antiepileptic medications abruptly can lead to rebound seizures and is unsafe, so this statement is correct.

C. Doubling up on doses can lead to toxicity and adverse effects; missed doses should not be made up by doubling the next dose. This response indicates the need for further teaching.

D. Taking medications exactly as prescribed is necessary to maintain therapeutic levels and manage seizure control effectively.

A. Altered mental status B. Tachycardia and hypotension C. Fixed and dilated pupils D. Widening pulse pressure

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Altered mental status, such as confusion, restlessness, or lethargy, is often the earliest sign of increasing ICP as it reflects brain tissue compression.

B. Tachycardia and hypotension are not primary indicators of elevated ICP.

C. Fixed and dilated pupils indicate severe and often irreversible ICP increase, occurring later in the progression.

D. Widening pulse pressure is a later sign of increased ICP, following changes in mental status.

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The nurse is caring for a patient with an acute brain injury. Which of the following sets of vital signs would concern the nurse about increasing intracranial pressure (ICP)?

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