Vasospasm after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage.

Despite every effort, 13% of patients with SAH still die or are permanently disabled as a consequence of vasospasm. Optimal outcome after aneurysmal SAH depends on careful assessment and management of patients throughout the course of hospitalization. Critical care nurses play a crucial role in this process. Efforts continue to understand the cascade of events that lead to cerebral vasospasm and to develop more effective treatments. Many therapies, both traditional and new, are being investigated to reduce the incidence of symptomatic vasospasm and improve the lives of patients who experience this devastating condition.