Which clinical manifestation indicates increased intracranial pressure in a child following a fall?

The manifestation of diplopia, or double vision, is indicative of potential increased intracranial pressure, particularly in the context of head trauma. When intracranial pressure rises, it can affect various neurological functions, including eye movements and coordination. Diplopia suggests that there may be impaired function of the cranial nerves responsible for eye control, often due to pressure on these nerves or areas of the brain that involve vision processing.

Following a fall, it is crucial to monitor for signs of increased intracranial pressure, as this can lead to serious complications. Diplopia is a significant symptom because it may be an early warning sign that the increased pressure is affecting the midbrain, where cranial nerve pathways are located. Recognizing this symptom allows for timely intervention, which is essential in preventing further neurological impairment.

Other manifestations associated with increased intracranial pressure—like headache, nausea, or loss of consciousness—can certainly be relevant, but diplopia specifically highlights a neurological disturbance related to eye function, making it a critical indicator in the context of head injury assessment.