Increased ICP Flashcards
The rigid cranial vault contains brain tissue (___________), blood (_________), and CSF (___________)
Brain tissue: 1400g
Blood and CSF: 75ml
The volume and pressure of these three components are usually in a state of equilibrium and produce the ICP (brain tissue, blood, CSF)
Increased ICP
ICP is usually measured in the _________
Lateral venticles
It can result from
Head injury
Brain tumor
Hydrocephaly
Meningitis
Encephalitis
Intracerebral hemorrhage
Increased ICP
True or False: Increased ICP should be treated as a medical emergency
True
Manifestations of Increased ICP
- Headache
- Change in LOC
- Irritability
- ↑ systolic BP
- ↓ HR (early)
- ↑ HR (late)
- ↓ RR
- Hemiparesis
- Loss of oculomotor control
- Photophobia (light sensitivity)
- Vomiting (with subsequent decreased headache)
- Diplopia (double vision)
Note: BLAP
Bradycardia
Level of altered consciousness
Altered breathing pattern
Projectile vomiting
Management of Increased ICP
- Elevate head of bed 15-30 degrees. Keep head in neutral alignment, do not flex or rotate neck
- Establish IV access
- Insert Foley Catheter as per doctor’s order
- Medications that may be used include
a. Osmotic diuretics
b. Sedatives
c. Neuromuscular blocking agents
d. Corticosteroids
e. Anticonvulsants
- Restrict fluids follow the doctor’s fluid regimen
- Closely monitor V/S and perform neuro checks
- Monitor fluids and electrolytes
- Schedule all procedures (including bathing and especially suctioning) to coincide with periods of sedation
- Discourage pt activities that result in use of Valsalva’s maneuver
- Keep environment as quiet as possible
- Ventilator may be used to maintain PaCO2 between 35-45
