A nurse is caring for a client who has sustained a neurologic injury with increased intracranial pressure and decreased cerebral perfusion.
Which of the following will maintain cerebral perfusion pressure constant?

Choice A rationale

Decreased visual acuity can increase the risk of falls, which are a common cause of head injuries in older adults. Impaired vision can affect balance and coordination, making it more difficult for an individual to navigate their environment safely.
Choice B rationale
While motor vehicle crashes can certainly lead to head injuries, they are not one of the most common causes of head injuries in older adults. Falls are actually the leading cause of head injuries in this population.
Choice C rationale
Polypharmacy, or the use of multiple medications by a patient, is common in older adults and can increase the risk of falls and, consequently, head injuries. Certain medications can cause side effects such as dizziness or confusion, which can lead to falls.
Choice D rationale
Weakness, particularly in the lower body, can increase the risk of falls and subsequent head injuries in older adults. Lower body weakness can affect an individual’s balance and mobility, making falls more likely.
Choice E rationale
Chronic hypertension can lead to a variety of health complications, including an increased risk of falls and head injuries. Hypertension can cause dizziness and balance problems, which can increase the risk of falls.

Choice A rationale
Pulmonary embolus is a serious condition that can occur due to prolonged immobility, but it is not directly related to the timing of enteral nutrition in a client with increased intracranial pressure.

Choice B rationale
Bacterial translocation refers to the migration of bacteria from the gut to other areas of the body. Early enteral nutrition (within 24 to 48 hours) in critically ill patients can help maintain the integrity of the gut mucosa and prevent bacterial translocation. Therefore, starting enteral nutrition within this timeframe can help prevent bacterial translocation.
Choice C rationale
Deep vein thrombosis, like pulmonary embolus, is a risk due to immobility but is not directly related to the timing of enteral nutrition.
Choice D rationale
Myocardial infarction is a cardiac event that could be related to overall cardiovascular health, stress, or specific injury to the cardiac muscle. It is not directly prevented by the initiation of enteral nutrition.