Which set of signs constitutes Cushing's triad associated with increased intracranial pressure?

• A. Hypertension, tachycardia, irregular respiration
• B. Hypotension, tachycardia, regular respiration
• C. Hypertension, bradycardia, regular respiration
• D. Hypertension, bradycardia, irregular respiration

Answer: (D)

When intracranial pressure is rising, the body shows a reflex pattern known as Cushing’s triad. The signs you look for are hypertension (high blood pressure), bradycardia (slow heart rate), and irregular respirations. Hypertension helps push blood into the brain to maintain cerebral perfusion despite the pressure. That rise in blood pressure triggers a reflex slowdown of the heart, giving bradycardia. Meanwhile, brainstem irritation or compression from the high pressure disrupts breathing, causing irregular or abnormal respirations.

So the set that matches this pattern is high blood pressure with a slow heartbeat and irregular breathing. Choices that include tachycardia, regular respiration, or hypotension don’t fit this triad, which is why they aren’t correct.