ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a brief introduction to the neurointensive care unit (Neuro-ICU) with specific attention to the neurologic exam, neuromonitoring, and neuroimaging. Close monitoring of the vital signs and the neurologic exam is an essential component of care in the Neuro-ICU. In addition to close monitoring of vital signs and the neurologic exam, patients in the Neuro-ICU often require advanced neuromonitoring for continuous measurement of intracranial pressure (ICP), cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP), electroencephalography (EEG), brain tissue oxygenation, and brain tissue temperature. Level I trauma centers will often care for patients with polytrauma and injuries to the brain or spinal cord. Multidisciplinary teams including neurosurgeons, trauma surgeons, orthopedic surgeons, and intensivists often manage such patients. The Neuro-ICU provides care for some of the most critically ill patients and as a result communication between bedside nurses, nurse practitioners, and physicians is critical. The Neuro-ICU provides care to some of the most critically ill patients in a given hospital.
