LPN Nursing Fundamentals Related

Review LPN Nursing Fundamentals related questions and content

The nurse is caring for a client with a closed head injury. Which finding suggests increasing intracranial pressure?

  • A. Pulse rate of 100
  • B. Widening pulse pressure
  • C. Respiratory rate of 20
  • D. Temperature of 99°F
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Widening pulse pressure (e.g., 140/60) indicates rising intracranial pressure post-head injury, reflecting Cushing's triad with bradycardia and respiratory changes pulse, respiration, or mild fever alone don't confirm this. Nurses report this, signaling brain herniation risk, necessitating urgent intervention like mannitol or surgery.