2025 Ontario Paramedics Neurological Emergencies Practice Test – Comprehensive Exam Prep

Estimating intracranial pressure (ICP) after a traumatic brain injury (TBI) is crucial for the timely identification of potential complications such as brain herniation or secondary brain injury due to increased pressure. Monitoring this through clinical presentations should be done frequently enough to catch any changes in a patient's condition.

Every 5 minutes is a recommended frequency in certain situations where a patient is unstable or shows signs of deterioration that could lead to rapid changes in ICP. This timely assessment allows healthcare providers to make swift decisions regarding the management of the patient, including interventions that may prevent worsening conditions.

Longer intervals, such as every 10 or every 30 minutes, might not capture critical changes in the patient's status quickly enough, especially in the early stages of monitoring after a TBI. The critical nature of monitoring ICP means that a more frequent assessment is required to ensure patient safety and appropriate medical response.