Basic Care and Comfort NCLEX PN Questions Nursing Practice Question
A nurse is caring for a patient in the step down unit. The patient has signs of increased intracranial pressure. Which of the following is not a sign of increased intracranial pressure?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Increased intracranial pressure (ICP) manifests through various physiological changes. Bradycardia (A) is often observed as ICP rises, reflecting altered autonomic function. A change in level of consciousness (C) is a critical sign, indicating potential brain dysfunction due to pressure effects. Vomiting (D) can occur due to irritation of the brain or brainstem, common in elevated ICP scenarios.
In contrast, increased pupil size bilaterally (B) is typically associated with other conditions, such as systemic issues or drug effects, rather than directly indicating increased ICP. Thus, option B does not align with the classic signs of elevated intracranial pressure.