A 46-Year-Old Man Is Hospitalized After a Motorcycle Collision

A 46-year-old man is hospitalized after a motorcycle collision.  The patient was thrown several feet and was found unconscious by the emergency medical team.  On arrival at the emergency department, blood pressure is 160/100 mm Hg, pulse is 58/min, and respirations are 10/min and irregular.  The patient does not answer questions or open his eyes to voice or touch.  He withdraws all extremities to pain but has no purposeful movements.  Pupils are symmetric and sluggish.  Bilateral breath sounds are normal.  There are abrasions on the face and extremities.  Endotracheal intubation is performed for airway protection.  Imaging of the head and cervical spine shows no intracranial hematomas, fractures, or dislocations, but diffuse cerebral edema is present.  Which of the following is the best initial intervention for reducing intracranial pressure in this patient?

A) Glucocorticoid therapy
B) Hypertonic saline
C) Lumbar puncture
D) Nimodipine

Correct Answer:

Verified

Unlock this answer now
Get Access to more Verified Answers free of charge

Access For Free