Free BCEN Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) Practice Question

A 44-year-old patient presents to the emergency department with a closed head injury after a motor vehicle collision. The patient is showing signs of decorticate posturing and has a Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score of 8. Neuroimaging has revealed a subdural hematoma. Which of the following interventions should the nurse prioritize to manage the patient's increased intracranial pressure?

  • Elevate the head of the bed to 30 degrees while maintaining cervical spine precautions if indicated.

  • Immediately administer osmotic diuretics to reduce cerebral edema.

  • Provide a quiet environment to minimize sensory stimulation and reduce cerebral metabolic demand.

  • Administer a stool softener to prevent straining during bowel movements, which can increase ICP.

This question's topic:
BCEN Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) / 
Neurological Emergencies
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