An elderly woman found with a head injury on the floor of her home is subsequently admitted to the neurologic ICU

What is the best rationale for the following physician orders: elevate the HOB; keep the head in neutral alignment with no neck flexion or head rotation; avoid sharp hip flexion?
A) To decrease cerebral arterial pressure
B) To avoid impeding venous outflow
C) To prevent flexion contractures
D) To prevent aspiration of stomach contents


Ans: B
Feedback:
Any activity or position that impedes venous outflow from the head may contribute to increased volume inside the skull and possibly increase ICP. Cerebral arterial pressure will be affected by the balance between oxygen and carbon dioxide. Flexion contractures are not a priority at this time. Stomach contents could still be aspirated in this position.

Nursing

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