Based on the nurse's knowledge of the progression of an epidural hematoma, which priority intervention is prepared for?
A) Insertion of an intracranial (IC) monitoring device
B) Treatment with antihypertensives
C) Emergency craniotomy
D) Administration of anticoagulant therapy
Ans: C
Feedback: An epidural hematoma is considered an extreme emergency. Marked neurologic deficit or respiratory arrest can occur within minutes. Treatment consists of making an opening through the skull to decrease ICP emergently, remove the clot, and control the bleeding. Insertion of an IC monitoring device may be done during the surgery, but is not priority for this patient. Antihypertensive medications would not be a priority. Anticoagulant therapy should not be ordered for a patient who has a cranial bleed because it could increase bleeding further.
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