After placing a patient with a ventriculostomy, which finding should be reported immediately?

The finding that should be reported immediately is an intracranial pressure (ICP) of 24 mmHg. Normal ICP typically ranges from 7 to 15 mmHg in a resting adult. When ICP exceeds this normal range, it indicates increased intracranial pressure, which can signify serious complications such as cerebral edema, hemorrhage, or other forms of intracranial hypertension.

An ICP of 24 mmHg is concerning because it is significantly elevated, suggesting that the brain may be under pressure, potentially leading to decreased cerebral perfusion, brain herniation, or other life-threatening conditions. Therefore, immediate intervention is necessary to prevent further neurological compromise.

In contrast, a temperature of 98.4 °F falls well within the normal range, indicating that the patient is not experiencing fever, which often serves as an important marker of infection or other complications in patients with neurological issues. A cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) of 70 mmHg is considered adequate and suggests that the brain is receiving enough blood flow. A PaCO2 of 35 mmHg is within normal limits for carbon dioxide levels in the blood and indicates that respiratory function is adequate. Thus, while all other findings are within acceptable ranges, the elevated ICP is critical and requires