Internal Monitoring Devices (ICP/IUPC)
Invasive devices monitoring intracranial pressure or uterine pressure
Definition
Internal monitoring devices are invasive instruments placed directly within body spaces to measure physiologic parameters in real time. Two key examples tested on the 2026 NCLEX are Intracranial Pressure (ICP) monitors and Intrauterine Pressure Catheters (IUPC).
ICP Monitoring
- Normal ICP: 5 to 15 mmHg
- Elevated: greater than 20 mmHg sustained. Intervention required
- Types: external ventricular drain (EVD), intraparenchymal monitor, epidural
- Cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) = MAP - ICP; goal ≥ 60
- Nursing priorities: HOB 30°, midline head position, sedation, mannitol/hypertonic saline for sustained elevation, avoid Valsalva
IUPC
- Catheter placed in the uterus after membrane rupture
- Measures contraction strength in Montevideo units (MVU); adequate labor: 200+ MVU in 10 min
- Nursing: maintain asepsis, monitor for infection, correlate with FHR
NCLEX Relevance
2026 emphasis on high-tech monitoring. Know normal values and nursing care.