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 A

Explanation

A. Elevating the head of the bed, loosening clothing, and checking for urinary catheter obstruction are key steps to lower blood pressure and relieve triggers of autonomic dysreflexia, a potentially life-threatening condition.

B. A cool compress may provide comfort but does not directly address the primary triggers or symptoms of autonomic dysreflexia.

C. Semi-Fowler's position is insufficient compared to a full 90-degree sitting position, which helps reduce blood pressure.

D. IV access and oxygen may be required if symptoms do not resolve, but immediate actions focus on relieving the cause of dysreflexia.

A. Fifth intercostal space, left midclavicular line B. Fourth intercostal space, right sternal boarder C. Third intercostal space, left midclavicular line D. Second intercostal space, right sternal boarder

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. The fifth intercostal space at the left midclavicular line is the location of the mitral valve, where murmurs associated with mitral valve disease are best auscultated.

B. The fourth intercostal space at the right sternal border is the location for assessing the tricuspid valve, not the mitral valve.

C. The third intercostal space at the left midclavicular line is not associated with loudest auscultation of the mitral valve murmur.

D. The second intercostal space at the right sternal border is where the aortic valve sounds are best heard.

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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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