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Effect of routine bedside procedures on intracranial pressure
Israel Journal of Medical Sciences
|September 1, 1977
Summary
Routine bedside procedures can significantly alter intracranial pressure (ICP) in comatose patients with brain edema. Continuous ICP monitoring and position adjustment are recommended for neurosurgical care.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Critical Care Medicine
- Neurology
Background:
- Comatose patients with brain edema are susceptible to intracranial pressure (ICP) fluctuations.
- Routine nursing procedures can impact ICP, posing risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of common bedside procedures on ICP in comatose patients with brain edema.
- To determine if ICP monitoring should be a standard practice in neurosurgical wards.
Main Methods:
- Studied 21 comatose patients with brain edema.
- Monitored ICP during routine procedures like position changes and suction.
- Assessed the impact of head rotation, flexion, and extension on ICP.
Main Results:
- Simple maneuvers, typically safe, caused significant ICP changes in these patients.
- Patient positioning directly influenced ICP levels.
- Variability in ICP response to procedures was observed.
Conclusions:
- Bedside procedures require careful consideration in patients with brain edema.
- Continuous ICP monitoring is crucial for managing these patients.
- Adjusting patient position based on ICP levels should be standard neurosurgical practice.