An elderly female is found on the floor of her home. She had apparently fallen and hit her head on the bathtub. She has a decreased level of consciousness on admission to the neurologic unit
What is the best rationale for the following physician orders: elevate the head of the bed; 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 intracranial pressure. Cerebral arterial pressure will be affected by the balance between oxygen and carbon dioxide. Flexion contractures aren't a priority at this time. Stomach contents could still be aspirated in this position.
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