A patient is in the emergency department following a head injury. The most accurate sign of developing increased intracranial pressure (IICP) is which of the following?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Decreasing level of consciousness is the most accurate sign of developing increased intracranial pressure as it indicates that brain function is being impaired. Elevated diastolic blood pressure and decreasing respiratory rate may also be signs of IICP, but they are not as specific or sensitive as a decreasing level of consciousness. Pupils being equal may be a sign of normal findings.

A Patient Is in the Emergency Department Following a Head