American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) Certification Practice Test

Cushing's triad is an indication of what condition?

1. Cardiac tamponade

2. Increased intracranial pressure

3. Acute cholecystitis

4. Hemorrhagic shock

The correct answer is: Increased intracranial pressure

Cushing's triad is a clinical syndrome indicating increased intracranial pressure. This triad is characterized by three key signs: hypertension (elevated blood pressure), bradycardia (decreased heart rate), and irregular or abnormal respirations. These symptoms arise due to the brain's autoregulation mechanisms being compromised as pressure mounts within the cranial vault. When intracranial pressure increases, the body attempts to maintain cerebral perfusion by elevating systemic blood pressure. Meanwhile, the brainstem's function may become affected, leading to bradycardia as a result of increased vagal tone. Additionally, irregular respiration patterns can occur due to pressure on the brainstem, which controls respiratory centers. This combination of signs is a critical warning that immediate medical intervention is needed to address the underlying cause of the elevated intracranial pressure to prevent severe neurological damage or death. Understanding this medical condition is vital for healthcare professionals, as recognizing Cushing's triad can be a life-saving skill in emergency and neurocritical care contexts.