Q: What is the characteristic of Hypertension in Cushing's triad?

Answer: Widening of pulse pressure

Cushing's triad is defined as having:

• Irregular respirations
• Bradycardia
• Hypertension

It is caused by increased pressure inside the skull and indicates ischemia to the brain. In response to rising intracranial pressure (ICP), respiratory rate increases, rather than depth of ventilation. It causes reflexive hypertension with widening of pulse pressure and bradycardia instead of tachycardia.