A closed head injury may present with signs known as Cushing's triad. All of the following are part of Cushing's triad EXCEPT:

A closed head injury may present with signs known as Cushing's triad. All of the following are part of Cushing's triad EXCEPT:

• A. Slowing pulse
• B. Increasing respirations
• C. Increasing blood pressure
• D. Erratic respirations

Answer: (B)

Cushing's triad signals rising intracranial pressure with brainstem involvement. The hallmark signs are a rise in systolic blood pressure with a widened pulse pressure, a slowing of the heart rate (bradycardia), and irregular respirations (often patternless or with periods of apnea). An increasing respiratory rate is not part of the triad; respirations tend to be irregular or decreased due to brainstem dysfunction. Recognizing this pattern is crucial because it points to dangerous ICP and potential herniation, requiring urgent management.

Cushing's triad signals rising intracranial pressure with brainstem involvement. The hallmark signs are a rise in systolic blood pressure with a widened pulse pressure, a slowing of the heart rate (bradycardia), and irregular respirations (often patternless or with periods of apnea). An increasing respiratory rate is not part of the triad; respirations tend to be irregular or decreased due to brainstem dysfunction. Recognizing this pattern is crucial because it points to dangerous ICP and potential herniation, requiring urgent management.