A patient who just underwent infratentorial craniotomy for a brain tumor is newly admitted to the ICU. Which of the following should the nurse include in the plan of care?
Explanation
• A craniotomy is a surgical opening into the skull to gain access to the intracranial structures to remove a tumor,
• The correct position for an infratentorial approach is to keep the head of bed flat and place a small pillow under the nape of the patient's neck to promote venous return and reduce ICP.
• Elevating the head of
• Post-craniotomy patients must be monitored for neuro and vital signs every 30 minutes.
• Flexing the neck of this particular patient could disrupt the suture line.
• Post-craniotomy patients are at risk for cerebral edema and increased ICP. Fluids at 175 ml/hr could lead to fluid overload.