Pulmonary complications in the patient with acute head injury: neurogenic pulmonary edema.

Neurogenic pulmonary edema (NPE) is a serious complication associated with various central nervous system insults. Experimental and clinical data support the occurrence of pulmonary edema as a result of neurogenic factors. Patients with NPE have increased intracranial pressure and respiratory distress, and their care presents a challenge to critical care nurses. The pathophysiology of this disease is not well understood. We discuss the current theories of NPE, its signs and symptoms, and the nursing management for patients with NPE.