Which symptom would indicate increased intracranial pressure in an older patient after head trauma?

Which symptom would indicate increased intracranial pressure in an older patient after head trauma?

• A. Purposeful movement
• B. Sudden emotional outbursts
• C. Blurred vision
• D. Normal exam findings

Answer: (C)

Raised intracranial pressure can affect the visual system, producing visual disturbances as the brain tissues and nerves become compressed. In an older patient after head trauma, the appearance of blurred vision points to pressure affecting the optic pathways or nearby structures, which is a direct clue toward elevated ICP. Purposeful movement implies preserved motor function, not a sign of ICP. Sudden emotional outbursts reflect behavioral or frontal-lobe issues rather than a primary indicator of intracranial pressure. Normal exam findings would not align with increased ICP. So blurred vision best fits the scenario because it signals potential impact on vision-related neural pathways due to raised pressure, requiring prompt evaluation.