Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) Practice Exam

What is one indication for monitoring intracranial pressure (ICP)?

1. Dehydration

2. Cerebral hemorrhage

3. Hyperglycemia

4. Kidney failure

The correct answer is: Cerebral hemorrhage

Monitoring intracranial pressure (ICP) is critical in the management of patients with cerebral hemorrhage. This condition can lead to increased pressure within the skull due to the accumulation of blood, which can compromise cerebral perfusion and lead to secondary brain injury. Elevated ICP can result in symptoms such as altered consciousness, pupil changes, and neurologic deterioration, making it vital to monitor and manage pressure effectively to prevent further complications. In contrast, while dehydration, hyperglycemia, and kidney failure can have significant impacts on a patient's overall health and hemodynamic status, they do not have a direct correlation with monitoring ICP. Dehydration primarily affects fluid balance and can impact renal function or perfusion but isn't specifically related to ICP. Similarly, hyperglycemia is more associated with metabolic control and complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis rather than intracranial pressure. Kidney failure may lead to various systemic issues and electrolyte imbalances, but it does not provide a direct rationale for monitoring ICP. Therefore, the most relevant and critical reason for monitoring ICP in the context of the given options is cerebral hemorrhage.