Measuring and monitoring ICP in Neurocritical Care: results from a national practice survey.

INTRODUCTION: The use of intracranial pressure (ICP) monitors is nearly synonymous with Neurocritical Care. Recent studies in nursing literature have report high levels of practice variance associated with ICP monitoring and treatment. There are no recent practice surveys to describe how critical care physicians and nurses who are familiar with ICP management provide care to their patients. METHODS: A short survey was developed and disseminated electronically to the members of the Neurocritical Care Society. RESULTS: The summary from 241 professionals provides evidence that there is significant practice variation associated with ICP monitoring and management. CONCLUSION: The results highlight the need to develop standardized approaches to measuring, monitoring, recording, and treating ICP.