WHAT IS A STROKE?


What is a stroke?
A stroke is also known as a brain attack.

What kind of strokes are there?
It may be hemorrhagic (caused by bleeding) or ischemic (embolic) caused by a clot or plaque in a blood vessel. Bleeding into the brain may be caused by trauma or rupture of a blood vessel due to high blood pressure. In an embolic stroke, a blood clot may obstruct the flow of blood in the brain.

How is a stroke diagnosed?
A CAT scan or MRI are diagnostics tests done to confirm the diagnosis.




Why is ICP Monitoring done?
Intracranial Pressure (ICP) Monitoring is done to monitor the ICP and take measures to decrease brain swelling. This may be done by medications such as Mannitol or insertion of an EVD through the Foramen Magnum at the base of the skull to prevent herniation caused by untreated brain swelling.

What are the roles of health care providers?
The doctor orders vital signs, frequency of ICP recordings, pain, and other medications. The nurse has an important role in assessing and documenting the patient's neurological status, vital signs, and oxygen saturation, intake, and output.Significant changes of any kind should be reported to the doctor. The brain injured patient, benefits from adequate rest, as this helps to prevent secondary injury to the brain.
Cranial nerves

What does EVD stand for, and what is it used for?
EVD stands for External Ventricular Device and is used to drain excess fluid in the ventricle to help prevent brain swelling and more damage to the brain.
After a stroke

How is insertion of an EVD done?
Under sterile conditions, the neurosurgeon shaves an area of the head and cleanses the skin. A device similar to a wall drill is used to penetrate the skill and access the ventricle. A sterile catheter is placed in the ventricle and a drainage system is attached.
Enjoy watching the video:
The New Nurse- ICP Monitoring

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