Question

The nurse provides care to an intubated adult patient with hypocarbia. Which finding does the nurse report immediately to the health care provider?

a) Hypertension
b) Bradycardia
c) Hyperthermia
d) Increased intracranial pressure (ICP)

Answer 1

The finding that the nurse should report immediately to the health care provider for an intubated adult patient with hypocarbia is increased intracranial pressure (ICP).

Step-by-step explanation:

The finding that the nurse should report immediately to the health care provider for an intubated adult patient with hypocarbia is increased intracranial pressure (ICP). Hypocarbia is a condition characterized by abnormally low levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the blood. It can lead to vasoconstriction, which in turn may cause an increase in intracranial pressure.

Increased ICP can be a serious complication that requires immediate medical attention to prevent further damage to the brain. In this case, hypertension, bradycardia, and hyperthermia may be associated with other conditions or complications, but they are not directly related to hypocarbia. Therefore, the nurse should prioritize reporting the increased ICP to the health care provider.