A patient with a head injury is stable but has a suspected increase in intracranial pressure. Which positioning action is appropriate?
Correct answer: B. Elevate the head about 30 degrees with the neck midline
- A. Keep the neck flexed to improve venous return
- B. Elevate the head about 30 degrees with the neck midline
- C. Place the patient flat with the hips sharply flexed
- D. Turn the head fully to one side against the pillow
Explanation
Elevating the head about 30 degrees and keeping the neck midline promotes cerebral venous drainage without compromising spinal alignment. Neck flexion, hip flexion, and head rotation can impede venous return and increase intracranial pressure.
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About Burns and Trauma Nursing
Covers the initial and continuing care of patients with burns, haemorrhage, fractures, head injury, chest trauma and shock. It includes burn depth and surface-area estimation, airway protection, fluid resuscitation, wound care, infection prevention, pain management and the distinction between hypovolaemic, septic and neurogenic shock.
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