Objective: This paper provides a review of current knowledge on intracranial pressure (ICP) dynamics, assessment, and diagnostic considerations, and presents a ladder approach to the management of the neuro-oncological emergency increased ICP.
Data source: Review of recent literature from PubMed.
Conclusion: Increased ICP can rapidly escalate into a catastrophic event. Prompt initiation of an individualized ladder approach to clinical management enabled by early recognition of symptoms and application of diagnostic tools have been shown to improve outcomes in patients suffering from this neuro-oncological emergency.
Implications for nursing practice: The care of cancer patients with increased ICP can be very challenging. When increased ICP in patients with cancer is evident or strongly suspected, nurses need to initiate a prompt and effective care plan that includes intensive monitoring of symptoms and continuous assessment of the patient's neurological condition that will guide diagnostic and treatment decisions. Nurses must continue to recognize the importance of utilizing best available evidence to support a collaborative interdisciplinary clinical plan of care.
Keywords: Central nervous system; Increased ICP; Intracranial hypertension; Neuro-oncology; Oncologic emergency.
Published by Elsevier Inc.