What medication would likely be ordered for a client diagnosed with increased intracranial pressure?

Mannitol is specifically indicated for the management of increased intracranial pressure due to its osmotic diuretic properties. It works by drawing water out of the brain and into the bloodstream, thereby reducing swelling and lowering intracranial pressure. This action is particularly beneficial in conditions such as traumatic brain injury, cerebral edema, or other situations where there is a buildup of fluid in the cranial cavity.

In contrast, acetazolamide is primarily used in conditions such as glaucoma or altitude sickness, and while it has some diuretic effect, it is not as effective for rapid reduction of intracranial pressure compared to mannitol. Furosemide, a loop diuretic, is generally utilized to manage fluid overload and hypertension rather than specifically targeting intracranial pressure. Spironolactone, a potassium-sparing diuretic, is mainly employed in treating conditions such as heart failure or conditions involving hyperaldosteronism, and its effect on intracranial pressure is not significant.

Thus, mannitol stands out as the preferred choice for treating increased intracranial pressure due to its rapid osmotic effects on reducing cerebral edema.