What vital sign finding indicates that a patient with increased ICP might be experiencing a fever?

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A temperature of 101.6 °F is significant in the context of a patient with increased intracranial pressure (ICP) because it indicates the presence of a fever, which can complicate the management of increased ICP. Fever can exacerbate cerebral edema and increase metabolic demands, potentially worsening the patient's condition.

In patients with increased ICP, monitoring for signs of fever is crucial, as infections, such as meningitis, can lead to both elevated temperatures and further increases in ICP. It is also important to recognize that the body’s response to infection often includes the elevation of temperature as part of the immune system's response.

Other vital signs listed do not indicate a fever. Blood pressure of 99/60 is relatively low but does not provide information about body temperature. A heart rate of 65 is within a normal resting range, showing no sign of tachycardia often associated with fever. Lastly, respirations at 14 are also normal and provide no indication of an elevated temperature. Thus, the temperature reading is the only option that directly signifies a fever, making it the appropriate indication of potential complications in this scenario.

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