Author Question: What is a nursing intervention to reduce the risk of increasing intracranial pressure (ICP) in an ... (Read 74 times)

maegan_martin · **on:** Jun 28, 2018

What is a nursing intervention to reduce the risk of increasing intracranial pressure (ICP) in an unconscious child?

a. Suction the child frequently.
b. Turn the child's head side to side every hour.
c. Provide environmental stimulation.
d. Avoid activities that cause pain or crying.

Question 2

The nurse is preparing a school-age child for computed tomography (CT) scan to assess cerebral function. The nurse should include what statement in preparing the child?

a. The scan will not hurt.
b. Pain medication will be given.
c. You will be able to move once the equipment is in place.
d. Unfortunately no one can remain in the room with you during the test.

hugthug12 · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 28, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
Unrelieved pain, crying, and emotional stress all contribute to increasing the ICP. Disturbing procedures should be carried out at the same time as therapies that reduce ICP, such as sedation. Suctioning is poorly tolerated by children. When necessary, it is preceded by hyperventilation with 100 oxygen. Turning the head side to side is contraindicated for fear of compressing the jugular vein. This would block the flow of blood from the brain, raising ICP. Nontherapeutic touch and environmental stimulation increase ICP. Minimizing both touch and environmental stimuli noise reduces ICP.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
For CT scans, the child must be immobilized. It is important to emphasize to the child that at no time is the procedure painful. Pain medication is not required; however, sedation is sometimes necessary. The child will not be allowed to move and will be immobilized. Someone is able to remain with the child during the procedure.