FAU Advanced Health Assessment Practice Test

What is a classic sign of increased intracranial pressure (ICP)?

1. Increased appetite

2. Severe headaches

3. Low blood pressure

4. Skin rashes

The correct answer is: Severe headaches

Severe headaches are a classic sign of increased intracranial pressure (ICP) because as pressure builds within the cranial cavity, it can irritate pain-sensitive structures such as the meninges. This irritation can lead to localized or generalized headaches, often described as intense or persistent. Increased ICP can be due to various causes, including swelling, tumors, or hematomas, all of which can create a feeling of pressure and discomfort in the head. Recognizing severe headaches in the context of other neurological signs is crucial, as it can indicate a potentially life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical attention. Increased appetite, low blood pressure, and skin rashes are not typically associated with elevated ICP. While changes in vital signs or other systemic symptoms might occur, they are not the hallmark indicators used to identify increased pressure in the cranial cavity.