The patient's ICP reading has gradually climbed from 15 to 23 mm Hg. The nurse's primary action is to
a. drain off 7 mm of CSF from the catheter.
b. notify the physician.
c. place the patient in a high Fowler position to decrease the pressure.
d. check level of consciousness.
B
Under normal physiologic conditions, mean intracranial pressure (ICP) is maintained below 15 mm Hg. An increase in ICP can decrease blood flow to the brain, causing brain damage. Persistent ICP elevation above 20 mm Hg remains the most significant factor associated with a fatal outcome.
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