Introduction The basic tenet of neurocritical care is prevention of secondary injury. Secondary injuries following the initial ictus include global increases in intracranial pressure (ICP), alterations in cerebral perfusion, hydrocephalus,…
Introduction Bleeding and thrombosis are common complications in the intensive care unit (ICU); their impact on neurologically ill patients is of particular concern because these complications may result in permanent…
Introduction Hyperglycemia is common in acutely ill patients. In the past, stress hyperglycemia was considered to be a beneficial adaptive response. However, prospective observational and clinical trial data show a…
Introduction The brain’s survival and function depend on its ability to maintain a constant supply of oxygen and energy-rich substrate. To accomplish this feat the complex architecture of the brain…
Introduction There is growing evidence that the physical design of clinical spaces affects the quality, efficiency, and experience of care in intensive care units (ICUs) and other settings. These effects…
Introduction Nurses and physicians come from two distinctly different programs. In the neurocritical care unit (NCCU) they work side by side but may not have been provided with the opportunity…
Introduction S.P. is a 60-year-old female with a history of hypertension who presented comatose with a left thalamic intracerebral hemorrhage associated with intraventricular hemorrhage, midline shift, and localized mass effect….
Introduction Need for Anesthesia and Monitoring During Surgery Monitoring is an essential component of patient care in the operating room, and standard monitoring mandated by the American Society of Anesthesiology…
Introduction Neuromonitoring in the intensive care unit (ICU) is undertaken for several acute neurologic conditions in children. Traumatic brain injury (TBI) constitutes the most common indication for neuromonitoring because injury…
