ICP MONITORING


What does ICP mean?
Intracranial pressure monitoring. A normal ICP reading may range from 1 - 15.

How is ICP done?
The neurosurgeon shaves an area of the head and cleans the skin. A device similar to a wall drill is used to get into the ventricle. A sterile catheter is placed in the ventricle and a drainage system is attached. This is called an External Ventricular Device (EVD) and works to relieve the excess fluid on the brain.

Mannitol (osmotic diuretic drug) is sometimes ordered to help remove excess fluid on the brain. Pain medication, sedation, and antipyretics (to control fever) are also ordered.

Helpful Hints:
- Follow MD orders
- Remember to record the ICP and drainage from EVD
- Brain injured patients tend to improve with adequate rest

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