Bacterial Meningitis

Question 1

Risk Factors

Answer 1

1) Head injury
2) Upper respiratory infection
3) Accidental introduction from spinal puncture

Question 2

Physical Assessment

Answer 2

1) Sudden fever
2) Persistent Headache
3) Pain/Stiffness of the neck
4) Exaggerated deep tendon reflexes
5) Photophobia

Question 3

Complications

Answer 3

1) Brain herniation
2) Neurologic disability
3) Death

Question 4

Priority Nursing Diagnosis

Answer 4

Acute pain r/t increased ICP AEB Headache and neck stiffness

Question 5

Patient outcome

Answer 5

1) Pt will verbalize when to ask for pain medication
2) Pts pain will be well controlled throughout hospitalization

Question 6

Diagnostic/Findings

Answer 6

1) LP
2) CT scan
3) A gram stain
4) Blood cultures

Question 7

Treatment:

Answer 7

1) Neurologic assessment
2) Conserve the pt strength
3) Prevent seizures
4) Promote healing
5) Prevent the spread of infection

Question 8

Medication

Answer 8

1) Antibiotic
2) Dexamethasone
3) Acetaminophen

Question 9

Pathophysiology

Answer 9

Inflammation of membranes covering the brain and spinal cord caused by infectious agents