Which of the following is an early sign of increased intracranial pressure (ICP) that a nurse should monitor?

An early sign of increased intracranial pressure (ICP) that a nurse should monitor is diminished responsiveness. Diminished responsiveness indicates a change in the patient's level of consciousness, which can occur as intracranial pressure begins to rise. It reflects the brain's inability to maintain normal function due to pressure impacting its ability to process stimuli and react appropriately.

Monitoring for changes in responsiveness is crucial because as ICP increases, this can lead to more severe complications, including brain herniation or permanent neurological damage. Recognizing these early signs allows for timely intervention, which is critical in preventing further deterioration of the patient's condition.

While elevated temperature, decreasing blood pressure, and pupillary changes can also be associated with increased ICP, they are typically seen as more advanced signs or symptoms that may develop later in the progression of elevated ICP. In clinical practice, the assessment of a patient’s responsiveness provides immediate feedback on their neurological status and is essential for appropriate monitoring and intervention.