ICP Flashcards
What are early signs and symptoms of increased ICP?
Decreased LOC, weakness, headache, pupillary changes, increased respirations
LOC stands for Level of Consciousness
What are late signs and symptoms of increased ICP?
Decreased LOC, seizures, decreased pulse, increased temperature, increased blood pressure, non-responsive/coma, death
These symptoms indicate a more severe state of increased ICP
What is a nursing intervention to help decrease ICP?
Increase head of bed
Elevating the head can help facilitate venous drainage and reduce ICP
Name a nursing intervention to help decrease ICP.
Limit activity
Reducing activity can help prevent further increases in ICP
What is a nursing intervention to help decrease ICP?
Blood pressure support
Maintaining appropriate blood pressure is critical in managing ICP
What is a nursing intervention to help decrease ICP?
Limit stimulation
Reducing environmental stimuli can help prevent increases in ICP
What is a nursing intervention to help decrease ICP?
Supplemental oxygen
Ensuring adequate oxygenation is important for brain function
What should be avoided with a patient who has increased ICP?
Suctioning
Suctioning can cause a sudden increase in ICP
What should be avoided with a patient who has increased ICP?
Lying flat
This position can impede venous drainage and increase ICP
What should be avoided with a patient who has increased ICP?
Noise
Loud noises can be a source of stimulation that may increase ICP
What should be avoided with a patient who has increased ICP?
Increased stimulation
Minimizing stimulation is crucial for managing ICP
What should be avoided with a patient who has increased ICP?
Bright lights
Bright lights can cause discomfort and increase stimulation
What should be avoided with a patient who has increased ICP?
Multiple cares at once
Performing multiple cares can overwhelm the patient and increase ICP