The Journal of neuroscience nursing : journal of the American Association of Neuroscience Nurses
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Refractory intracranial hypertension (RICH) is defined as intracranial pressures that exceed 25 mm Hg for 30 minutes, 30 mm Hg for 15 minutes, or 40 mm Hg for 1 minute. RICH occurs in approximately 15% of patients with traumatic brain injury. ⋯ Pentobarbital sodium coma is a second-tier treatment that can be used to treat RICH. Understanding the principal mechanics of this therapy is key to the successful management of RICH and quality patient care.