Intracranial Pressure & Neuro Assessment
What is the earliest indicator of increased ICP?
Change in LOC
What does the “T” in FAST stand for?
Time to call 911
Deficient neurotransmitter in Parkinson’s?
Dopamine
Level of injury where dysreflexia occurs?
T6 or above
Typical pancreatitis pain pattern?
LUQ → radiates to back
Name the three parts of the Glasgow Coma Scale.
Eye / Verbal / Motor responses
Why must the “last known well” time be identified?
Determines eligibility for tPA within 3–4.5 hrs
What triad defines Parkinson’s?
Tremor, Rigidity, Bradykinesia
Two common triggers?
Bladder distension & fecal impaction
Key lab for pancreatitis?
Lipase ↑
Which posture indicates brainstem injury?
Decerebrate posturing
Which type of aphasia prevents speaking but not understanding?
Expressive (Broca’s)
Medication to avoid with urinary retention?
Benztropine (Anticholinergic)
Early sign of autonomic dysreflexia?
Severe headache & sudden HTN
Post-cholecystectomy shoulder pain cause?
Residual CO₂ gas irritation
State two interventions that lower ICP.
Elevate HOB 30° & keep neck neutral
BP 190/110 while on tPA — what’s your action?
Stop tPA, notify HCP → bleeding risk
Priority action during a seizure?
Turn patient on side & protect airway
First action when dysreflexia occurs?
Sit the patient upright
Pancreatitis priority interventions (2)?
NPO & aggressive IV fluids
What vital-sign pattern defines Cushing’s Triad?
↑ BP (widened pulse pressure), ↓ HR, irregular RR
Give two communication strategies for aphasia.
Yes/No questions & use picture boards
Dark urine on carbamazepine means what?
Possible liver toxicity → hold med & notify HCP
Untreated autonomic dysreflexia can lead to what?
Stroke or seizure from severe HTN
Finding that shows improvement?
↓ lipase level