A 70-year-old female is being closely monitored in the neurological critical care unit for a severe closed head injury.After 48 hours,her condition begins to deteriorate.Her pupils are small and sluggish,pulse pressure is widening,and she is bradycardic.These clinical findings are evidence of what stage of intracranial hypertension?
A) Stage 1
B) Stage 2
C) Stage 3
D) Stage 4

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Stage 3 is characterized by decreasing levels of arousal or central neurogenic hyperventilation,widened pulse pressure,bradycardia,and pupils that become small and sluggish.
Stage 1 is characterized by an ICP that may not change because of the effective compensatory mechanisms,and there may be few symptoms.
Stage 2 is characterized by subtle and transient symptoms,including episodes of confusion,restlessness,drowsiness,and slight pupillary and breathing changes.
Stage 4 is characterized by cessation of cerebral blood flow.

A 70-Year-Old Female Is Being Closely Monitored in the Neurological