Pharmacology Proctored ATI Practice Exam

Which medication should a nurse plan to administer for increasing intracranial pressure?

1. Furosemide

2. Mannitol 25%

3. Dexamethasone

4. Phenytoin

The correct answer is: Mannitol 25%

Mannitol 25% is the appropriate medication to administer for increasing intracranial pressure. Mannitol is an osmotic diuretic that works by reducing cerebral edema by drawing water out of brain tissue and into the bloodstream, thereby decreasing intracranial pressure. Furosemide is a loop diuretic used to treat conditions such as edema and hypertension, but it is not commonly used to reduce intracranial pressure. Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid that is used to reduce inflammation and treat conditions such as allergic reactions and certain types of cancers, but it is not typically used to directly reduce intracranial pressure. Phenytoin is an antiepileptic medication used to control seizures and does not have a direct effect on intracranial pressure.