[luvtheOBX]

I need some help. I am taking the CCRN exam tomorrow (God help me!) and I worry that the text I am studying from is a little old. Is mannitol still used for increased intercranial pressure? How about hyperventilation? Any help would be appreciated.

[Aquarian]

Mannitol is still being used (20%) at 0.7 to 1 gram/ kg in 15 minutes, much higher than before.

Hypertonic saline solution is used for severe head injury accompanied by arterial hypotension.

High-dose barbiturate therapy (pentobarbital or thiopental) in selected cases of refractory ( not uncontrolled ) intracranial hypertension in pediatric TBI.

Controlled hypocapnia still used for short-term ICP control. Damage of hyperventilation by reducing CBF (causing cerebral ischemia) far outweighs its value for reducing ICP (thru vasoconstriction and reduction of cerebral blood volume) .

May the force be with you! Goodluck on your exam!

[luvtheOBX]

Thanks so much!