Cushing's triad consists of which findings?

• A. Hypertension, bradycardia, and irregular respirations.
• B. Hypotension, tachycardia, and regular respirations.
• C. Hypertension, tachycardia, and rapid respirations.
• D. Hypotension, bradycardia, and irregular respirations.

Answer: (A)

Cushing's triad is a late sign of markedly increased intracranial pressure. When ICP rises, the body initially tries to maintain cerebral perfusion by increasing systolic blood pressure, so hypertension with a widened pulse pressure can occur. At the same time, brainstem compression from the pressure slows the heart, producing bradycardia. The brainstem disruption also leads to irregular or unpredictable breathing patterns, rather than orderly, regular respirations. Put together, the trio of hypertension, bradycardia, and irregular respirations is the classic warning sign of a dangerous intracranial process that may progress toward herniation. This is why the described combination is the best answer.