Which order should the nurse anticipate for management of increased ICP?

A. IV Dextrose 10% bolus: Administering dextrose can increase serum osmolality and potentially worsen cerebral edema. It is not indicated for reducing intracranial pressure. Dextrose is typically reserved for treating hypoglycemia. B. Heparin infusion: Anticoagulation is not a primary intervention for elevated intracranial pressure. Heparin would be contraindicated in patients at risk of intracranial bleeding or cerebral edema. C. Furosemide PO: Oral furosemide has a delayed onset and limited effectiveness in rapidly reducing intracranial pressure. While loop diuretics may be used adjunctively, IV administration is preferred for acute management. D. IV Mannitol or hypertonic saline: Osmotic agents such as IV mannitol or hypertonic saline are first-line therapies for elevated ICP. They create an osmotic gradient that draws fluid from cerebral tissue into the intravascular space, reducing cerebral edema and pressure effectively and rapidly.