Which assessment finding most strongly suggests raised intracranial pressure in an adult patient?
Correct answer: B. Widening pulse pressure with decreasing pulse rate
- A. Increased appetite with warm, flushed skin
- B. Widening pulse pressure with decreasing pulse rate
- C. Rapid pulse with low blood pressure
- D. Frequent diarrhoea with abdominal cramping
Explanation
Widening pulse pressure and bradycardia are components of Cushing response, which indicates severe raised intracranial pressure. This is a late and dangerous finding requiring urgent reporting, not a normal vital-sign variation.
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About Neurological Nursing
Covers nursing assessment and management of stroke, epilepsy, meningitis, raised intracranial pressure, head injury, spinal cord disorders, Parkinson disease and multiple sclerosis. Key areas include level of consciousness, pupil responses, motor and sensory findings, seizure precautions and distinguishing upper motor neuron from lower motor neuron signs.
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