Final answer:
The patient with increased ICP should receive balanced essential nutrition that does not exacerbate brain swelling or ICP, avoiding simple glucose IV solutions and fluid restriction leading to dehydration(option d).
Step-by-step explanation:
The metabolic and nutritional needs of a patient with increased ICP (intracranial pressure) are best met with d) balanced, essential nutrition in a form that the patient can tolerate.
This includes avoiding substances that can exacerbate brain swelling or increase ICP. For instance, options such as simple glucose solutions like D5W IV might lead to hyperglycemia, which could worsen cerebral edema, hence this is not the optimal choice. Additionally, fluid restriction that promotes moderate dehydration might also contribute to increased ICP and is not advisable. Optimal nutrition might include enteral feedings that are carefully balanced to not increase solute loads, particularly sodium, which can worsen cerebral edema and ICP. Solutions that are isotonic with respect to body fluids, such as isotonic saline, are typically used to correct dehydration without adversely affecting sodium balance or ICP.