A patient with a head injury has an arterial blood pressure is 92/50 mm Hg and an intracranial pressure of 18 mm Hg. Which action by the nurse is appropriate?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's cerebral perfusion pressure is only 46 mm Hg, which will rapidly lead to cerebral ischemia and neuronal death unless rapid action is taken to reduce ICP and increase arterial BP. Documentation and monitoring are inadequate responses to the patient's problem. Elevating the head of the bed will lower the ICP but may also lower cerebral blood flow and further decrease CPP. Changes in pupil response to light are signs of increased ICP, so the nurse will only take more time doing this without adding any useful information.

A Patient with a Head Injury Has an Arterial Blood