What is an expected nursing intervention for a patient with increased intracranial pressure (ICP)?

Keeping the head of the bed at 30 degrees is an important nursing intervention for a patient with increased intracranial pressure (ICP). This position aids in venous outflow from the brain, which can help reduce ICP by facilitating drainage of cerebrospinal fluid and decreasing pressure within the cranial cavity. An elevated head position can also improve respiratory function, which is crucial for maintaining adequate oxygenation and reducing carbon dioxide levels, both of which can be beneficial in managing ICP.

While other interventions may be relevant in different contexts, they do not directly address the specific needs of a patient experiencing increased ICP as effectively as maintaining the head of the bed at the appropriate angle. For instance, encouraging deep breathing exercises can support lung expansion, but if performed incorrectly or without due consideration, it could inadvertently increase ICP in some situations. Repositioning every 2 hours may be necessary for general patient care, but it doesn't directly mitigate ICP. Monitoring cardiac enzymes is unrelated to the management of ICP and focuses instead on assessing myocardial function. Thus, maintaining the head of the bed at 30 degrees is the most suitable intervention for managing increased intracranial pressure.