The nurse is caring for a child with increased intracranial pressure (ICP). What interventions should the nurse plan for this child? (Select all that apply.)

Question

a. Avoid jarring the bed.
b. Keep the room brightly lit.
c. Keep the bed in a flat position.
d. Administer prescribed stool softeners.
e. Administer a prescribed antiemetic for nausea.

Answer 1

ANS: A, D, E
Other measures to relieve discomfort for a child with ICP include providing a quiet, dimly lit environment; limiting visitors; preventing any sudden, jarring movement, such as banging into the bed; and preventing an increase in ICP. The latter is most effectively achieved by proper positioning and prevention of straining, such as during coughing, vomiting, or defecating. An antiemetic should be administered to prevent vomiting, and stool softeners should be prescribed to prevent straining with bowel movements. The head of the bed should be elevated 15 to 30 degrees.