What happens to intracranial pressure during rescue breaths?

During rescue breaths, it is important to understand how ventilatory maneuvers affect the body, particularly the intracranial pressure (ICP). When rescue breaths are given, there is an increase in thoracic pressure due to the positive pressure applied to inflate the lungs. This pressure can be transmitted to the venous system, which impacts the return of blood from the brain.

The increase in intrathoracic pressure can lead to a reduction in venous return to the heart and subsequently may contribute to an increase in intracranial pressure. This is particularly relevant in situations where there may already be compromised cerebral perfusion or existing head injuries, making it crucial for responders to be aware of these physiological effects.

In contrast, other options suggesting a decrease, unchanged state, or random fluctuations do not account for the real physiological response observed during rescue breathing, where the mechanics of the chest and the pressures involved play a vital role in impacting intracranial pressure dynamics.