Paramedic National Registry Practice Exam 2025 – The All-in-One Guide to Master Your Certification!

Cushing's Reflex is a physiological response observed in patients with increased intracranial pressure (ICP). It is characterized by a classic triad of symptoms: hypertension, bradycardia (decreased heart rate), and irregular or abnormal respiration patterns. In this context, increased blood pressure is a compensatory mechanism as the body tries to maintain adequate cerebral perfusion despite rising intracranial pressure. The decreased heart rate occurs as a result of increased vagal tone in response to the elevated blood pressure. The erratic respiration may reflect brainstem involvement, where respiratory centers can be affected by the increased ICP.

The other options do not align with the hallmark features of Cushing’s Reflex, as they either indicate a decrease in blood pressure or do not accurately represent the changes in heart rate and respiration associated with the increased ICP scenario. Understanding Cushing's Reflex is critical for paramedics and other healthcare providers, as it helps in assessing patients with potential neurological emergencies. Recognizing these signs can lead to prompt and appropriate intervention.