What is the expected change in behavior for a child experiencing increased intracranial pressure (ICP)?

When evaluating a child experiencing increased intracranial pressure (ICP), a decreased level of consciousness and irritability are characteristic behavioral changes. Increased ICP can stem from various conditions, such as trauma, tumors, or infections, and it typically results in pressure on the brain, leading to neurological symptoms.

As the pressure increases, the brain's normal functions can be impaired, leading to alterations in consciousness. Children may become lethargic, difficult to awaken, or exhibit a reduced level of responsiveness. Additionally, irritability can arise because the child may be experiencing discomfort or pain due to the increased pressure, causing them to be more easily upset or agitated.

In contrast, increased appetite and energy levels, increased alertness, or hyperactivity do not align with the effects of increased ICP. These behaviors would suggest normal brain function, while in reality, increased ICP causes significant stress on the brain, leading to symptoms such as confusion, decreased responsiveness, and more generalized irritability due to the disrupted physiological state.