Which of the following therapies is used to reduce intracranial pressure (ICP)?

The therapy most commonly used to reduce intracranial pressure (ICP) is hyperventilation. Hyperventilation leads to a decrease in carbon dioxide (CO2) levels in the blood, which causes vasoconstriction of cerebral blood vessels. This vasoconstriction reduces cerebral blood flow, thereby decreasing the volume of blood in the cranial cavity and leading to a reduction in ICP.

This technique can be particularly beneficial in acute situations where rapid control of ICP is needed, such as in cases of traumatic brain injury or other conditions leading to increased intracranial pressure. By effectively managing CO2 levels, hyperventilation serves as a temporary measure to alleviate pressure until more permanent treatments can be administered.

Oxygen therapy, while essential in managing various pulmonary and cardiovascular conditions, does not directly affect ICP. Physical therapy is focused on rehabilitation and does not have an impact on acute ICP levels. Electroconvulsive therapy is primarily used for severe depression and does not relate to ICP management. Thus, hyperventilation stands out as the appropriate therapy for reducing intracranial pressure.