Publication Date

Spring 5-3-2026

Document Type

Student Project

First Advisor

Alsaden, Patrice

Degree Name

B.S. (Bachelor of Science)

Department

School of Nursing

Abstract

This meta-analysis identifies noninvasive clinical predictors of intracranial hypertension (IH) post head trauma to develop a multi-criteria IH screening tool designed for nurses to wear on their badge reels. High-sensitivity predictors were prioritized to assist in early IH suspicion. Findings suggest that radiographic-measured abnormalities including an optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) 5.6 mm and signs of significant head trauma via computed tomography (CT) were highly effective for predicting IH and were therefore defined as major criteria for the assessment tool. Other significant examination findings include a Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score 8 and atypical pupillary reactivity. While age showed conflicting correlations to IH across studies, it remains a relevant factor for monitoring, alongside the time after the initial injury. Gender and isolated blood pressure readings were not statistically significant predictors. While noninvasive clinical examination findings cannot accurately diagnose IH effectively, this research supports a combined diagnostic approach, emphasizing these predictors as primary triggers for nurses to advocate for urgent invasive intracranial pressure monitoring and intervention.

Comments

2026 CURE Award Winner - Second place in Health and Human Sciences category

Additional Files
1561 - Dondiego Intracranial Hypertension Tool.pdf (325 kB)
Heads Up! CURE Poster
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