Which finding is a component of Cushing's triad?

Which finding is a component of Cushing's triad?

• A. Increased Blood Pressure
• B. Tachycardia
• C. Hyperthermia
• D. Diaphoresis

Answer: (A)

Cushing's triad shows a dangerous rise in intracranial pressure and is a sign of impending brainstem compromise. When ICP climbs, the body raising arterial pressure helps push blood through to the brain, producing hypertension. At the same time, the brainstem reflexes trigger slowing of the heart, so bradycardia often accompanies the high blood pressure, and respirations become irregular as brainstem control is disrupted. Because of this pattern, increased blood pressure is the component that fits the triad. Tachycardia would not fit the typical reflex bradycardia, and hyperthermia or diaphoresis aren’t defining features of Cushing’s triad.

Cushing's triad shows a dangerous rise in intracranial pressure and is a sign of impending brainstem compromise. When ICP climbs, the body raising arterial pressure helps push blood through to the brain, producing hypertension. At the same time, the brainstem reflexes trigger slowing of the heart, so bradycardia often accompanies the high blood pressure, and respirations become irregular as brainstem control is disrupted. Because of this pattern, increased blood pressure is the component that fits the triad. Tachycardia would not fit the typical reflex bradycardia, and hyperthermia or diaphoresis aren’t defining features of Cushing’s triad.