Managing Intracranial Pressure after Cerebral Aneurysm Resection: Considerations for Suctioning

PACU has several patients with endotracheal tubes. Which patient should receive the least amount of suctioning?A. Transplant of a kidneyB. Replacement of an aortic valveC. Cerebral anuerysm resectionD. Formation of an ileus conduit

C. Cerebral aneurysm resection The nurse should avoid suctioning the patient after a craniotomy until it is necessary because suctioning will increase this patient’s intracranial pressure. The patients with a kidney transplantation, aortic valve replacement, or formation of an ileal conduit will not be negatively affected by suctioning, although it should only be done when needed, not routinely.

The patient who underwent cerebral aneurysm resection should receive the least amount of suctioning.

Cerebral aneurysm resection involves the surgical removal of a brain aneurysm, which is a weakened, bulging area in the wall of an artery supplying blood to the brain. This type of surgery can cause an increase in intracranial pressure, which can lead to brain herniation or damage. Therefore, care must be taken to avoid any activity that can increase intracranial pressure, such as suctioning.

On the other hand, patients who underwent a kidney transplant, aortic valve replacement, or formation of an ileus conduit are not at an elevated risk for increased intracranial pressure, and can tolerate suctioning as needed. Depending on their individual condition, they may require more suctioning than the patient who underwent cerebral aneurysm resection.

It is important to note that the decision on how much suctioning each patient should receive should be made by the treating physician and/or respiratory therapist based on the patient’s condition and clinical needs.

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