Which intervention is least likely to be prioritized in a patient with increased ICP?

In patients with increased intracranial pressure (ICP), interventions are aimed at managing the pressure and ensuring adequate cerebral perfusion. Among the choices, encouraging high sodium intake is the least likely to be prioritized.

High sodium intake could lead to increased fluid retention, which may exacerbate cerebral edema or increase the overall volume in the cranial cavity. Maintaining osmotic balance is crucial in patients experiencing elevated ICP, as sodium plays a significant role in regulating fluid balance in the body. In many cases, hypertonic saline may be administered to draw fluid out of the brain and reduce swelling, but this is not the same as simply encouraging increased sodium intake through the diet, which is not a standard intervention for managing increased ICP.

In contrast, reducing environmental stimuli is typically prioritized to minimize stress and agitation in the patient, which can contribute to increased ICP. Monitoring vital signs is also critical to observe for any changes that could indicate worsening conditions, while administering intravenous medications, such as mannitol or corticosteroids, plays an essential role in managing intracranial pressure effectively.