Icp

Does she have any signs of increased ICP? If so, then I would implement that action.

She seemed to become restless when I laid the bed down to roll her and inspect her backside. She kept rolling back over on her back, and flipping her leg back and forth.

I've had my LPN for just over a year, but only work part time, while continuing on to get my RN. I don't see alot of acute patients.

if she is more comfortable with the head up, would "hob at 45" for patient comfort " work?

HOB elevated 30 degrees is always a good thing when in doubt. First,she is post ICH,so chances of increase ICP are small. But ,aspiration and other indicators, advocate for elevation of the bed when at rest.

if the the patient was admitted with dx of a bleed of course she is at risk for icp, you were right raise the head of that bed. and review any info you have on ways to manage and prevent a increase of icp. also look at literature for ways to spot if the patient is having increased icp "cushing response". good job teresa....

All of our neuro patients HOBs have to be between 30-45 degrees. All of our vent, difficulty breathing and tube feed patients have to have their HOB at 30 degrees also. It decreases ICP, helps with breathing and reduces the risk of aspiration.

When in doubt always HOB up....always do what you think is right. Go with your gut...but, it's always a good idea to have basic reference books when you work-I carry them all the time.

There is no fault in checking-your patients will thank you.

Maisy;)

if the the patient was admitted with dx of a bleed of course she is at risk for icp, you were right raise the head of that bed. and review any info you have on ways to manage and prevent a increase of icp. also look at literature for ways to spot if the patient is having increased icp "cushing response". good job teresa....

Alsolutely right. But the pt she is talking about is in a long term care facility, I am surmising. Increase ICP should be part of every assessment and HOB should be up. Risk is much lower at this point of recovery or she would not have been sent out of acute care. (hopefully) Reading up on pts diagnosis' is always helpful and will only better your assessment skills. Remember, always err on the side of precaution, it will cya. The nurses that have been there awhile are more comfortable in their shoes,so less apt to be as cautious,not always a good thing.

Your obvious maturing critical thinking skills will go with you and benifit u in school and ur future profession.