What are the clinical signs of increased intracranial pressure in a pediatric patient?

Increased intracranial pressure (ICP) in pediatric patients can manifest through several distinct clinical signs, particularly in infants. The presence of altered mental status indicates that the child's brain function is being affected due to pressure buildup, which can alter their level of consciousness or responsiveness. Vomiting is a common symptom associated with increased ICP, often occurring due to stimulation of the brain's vomiting center as a response to the increased pressure.

Bulging fontanelle is another key sign specifically observable in infants, as the fontanelle, or the soft spot on the skull, can bulge when there is increased pressure within the cranial cavity. This is particularly notable in infants since their cranial bones have not yet fused, allowing for visible signs of ICP.

These signs are critical for clinicians to recognize, as they indicate a potentially life-threatening situation that requires immediate intervention. The other options, while they may represent other medical conditions or symptoms, do not specifically point to the signs of increased intracranial pressure in children. This distinction is crucial in emergency pediatric nursing, where early recognition and response can significantly impact outcomes.