Author Question: A child who is intubated and mechanically ventilated has an intracranial pressure monitoring device ... (Read 116 times)

shofmannx20 · **on:** Jun 28, 2018

A child who is intubated and mechanically ventilated has an intracranial pressure monitoring device in place. The child is agitated. Which medication order would the nurse question based on the assessment data?

A.
Fentanyl (Sublimaze)
B.
Lorazepam (Ativan)
C.
Methylprednisolone (Solu-Medrol)
D.
Morphine (Astramorph)

Question 2

A nurse is caring for a child who has intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring. The nurse assesses the child and notes that the ICP is 9 mm Hg. Which action by the nurse is most appropriate?

A.
Activate the rapid response team.
B.
Document the finding in the chart.
C.
Hyperventilate the patient.
D.
Prepare to administer mannitol (Osmotrol).

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

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
Pain and agitation are treated aggressively because they both can increase intracranial pressure. Appropriate drug choices include fentanyl, lorazepam, and morphine. Corticosteroids do not treat either pain or agitation and their use in cerebral edema is controversial.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
A normal ICP is 0-10 mm Hg. This finding is normal and the nurse needs only to document it and continue monitoring. No other actions are needed.