A nurse is caring for a patient with a head injury and increased intracranial pressure (ICP). Which of the following interventions should the nurse implement to help prevent an increase in ICP?

A. Keep the patient in a low flat position to improve perfusion to the brain: Positioning the patient flat can increase intracranial pressure by reducing venous drainage from the brain. The head of the bed is typically elevated 30 degrees to facilitate venous return and maintain cerebral perfusion without increasing ICP. B. Allow the patient to move around in bed to prevent muscle stiffness: Uncontrolled movement or frequent repositioning can increase ICP by stimulating the patient and causing straining or Valsalva maneuvers. Careful, minimal movement is preferred to prevent spikes in intracranial pressure while still addressing the need for mobility safely. C. Administer sedatives as ordered to reduce agitation and prevent straining: Sedatives help reduce agitation, anxiety, and pain, which can elevate ICP through increased sympathetic stimulation and physical straining. Controlled sedation facilitates patient comfort, minimizes metabolic demands, and helps maintain ICP within safe limits. D. Encourage the patient to cough and sneeze to clear respiratory secretions: Coughing and sneezing increase intrathoracic pressure, which impedes venous return from the brain and temporarily raises ICP. These activities should be minimized or performed cautiously with support to avoid abrupt increases in intracranial pressure.