Which symptoms should a nurse monitor for signs of increased intracranial pressure in a child with meningitis?

In the context of meningitis, monitoring for symptoms of increased intracranial pressure (ICP) is critical due to the risk of serious complications. Vomiting and irritability are prominent indicators of raised ICP.

Vomiting is a common symptom because increased pressure within the skull can stimulate the vomiting center in the brain. This can lead to recurrent vomiting episodes, which may worsen the child's overall condition and hydration status.

Irritability indicates a change in the child's neurologic status. As intracranial pressure rises, it can affect the child's mood and responsiveness, making them more irritable or difficult to console. This can be observed as restlessness or a high-pitched cry, which is often heightened in infants and young children.

Observing these symptoms in conjunction with clinical findings can prompt timely interventions to address the raised ICP, which is crucial in the management of meningitis to prevent further neurological damage and complications.