Which finding is a manifestation of Cushing's triad in a client with a traumatic brain injury?

Cushing's triad is a clinical syndrome associated with increased intracranial pressure (ICP) and is particularly relevant in patients with traumatic brain injury. The triad typically consists of three key findings: hypertension, bradycardia, and irregular or abnormal respirations.

In this context, an increase in blood pressure is an important physiological response observed as the body attempts to maintain cerebral perfusion despite elevated ICP. Elevated blood pressure is a compensatory mechanism triggered by the body's need to ensure that sufficient blood flow reaches the brain, contributing to the manifestation of Cushing’s triad.

This physiological response is often accompanied by a decrease in heart rate, which is referred to as bradycardia, and can also coincide with other changes such as respiratory irregularities. While altered level of consciousness and widened pulse pressure are associated features of the condition, the direct manifestation of increased blood pressure is central to the identification of Cushing's triad. Therefore, recognizing the increase in blood pressure as part of this triad is crucial for assessing and managing patients with traumatic brain injuries effectively.