A nurse is admitting a patient with a subarachnoid hemorrhage and expects to administer which of the following medications to decrease intracranial pressure (ICP)?

Choice A rationale
Cushing’s Triad, which includes bradycardia (low heart rate), irregular respiration, and widened pulse pressure, is a nervous system response that could prevent brainstem ischemia. Brainstem ischemia is a condition where there is insufficient blood flow to the brainstem, which can lead to cell death.
Choice B rationale

While tachycardia (high heart rate) is a serious condition, it is not typically prevented by Cushing’s Triad.
Choice C rationale
Agonal breathing, which is characterized by gasping, labored breathing, particularly when lying flat, is not typically prevented by Cushing’s Triad.
Choice D rationale
Chest pain is not typically prevented by Cushing’s Triad. Cushing’s Triad is a response to increased intracranial pressure, not a cardiac condition.

Choice A rationale
While improved rehabilitation outcomes and temporary behavior changes can occur after a neurological injury, they are not typically considered psychosocial changes. Psychosocial changes often involve alterations in the way individuals perceive, interact with, and navigate their social environments.
Choice B rationale
Improved mood stability and temper control are not typically associated with the aftermath of a neurological injury. In fact, individuals may experience mood swings, irritability, and difficulties with emotional regulation.
Choice C rationale
Changes to social cognition and challenges to inhibitory control are indeed possible psychosocial changes a client might have after sustaining a neurological injury. Social cognition involves understanding and interpreting social cues, which can be affected by brain injury.
Challenges to inhibitory control can lead to impulsive behavior and difficulties in social situations.
Choice D rationale
While a sense of purpose, improved motivation, and stable relationships can be part of a successful recovery process, they are not typically direct outcomes of a neurological injury. In

fact, relationships may be strained and motivation can be affected due to the physical and emotional challenges associated with such an injury.