Brain Abscess Flashcards
What is Brain Abscess?
A brain abscess is a collection of infectious material in brain tissue, usually caused by bacteria.
What is the primary symptom of a Brain Abscess?
Headache, usually worse in the morning.
Give the other signs and symptoms of a Brain Abscess
Fever
Vomiting
Focal neurological deficits: such as weakness or decreased vision
Seizures.
Increased ICP symptoms
Altered consciousness
Which diagnostic tool is commonly used to detect a Brain Abscess?
CT or MRI scans.
Which other diagnostic tools that might be effective to detect a Brain Abscess?
Aspiration which is guided by CT or MRI scan
Blood Cultures & Blood PCR
Electroencephalogram (EEG)
What is the first-line treatment for Brain Abscesses?
Antimicrobial therapy and sometimes surgical incision.
Under antimicrobial therapy, which antibiotics are used as first line treatment for Brain Abscess?
Ceftriaxone & Metronidazole
Give the dosage for Ceftriaxone as a treatment therapy for a Brain Abscess
Ceftriaxone IV, 2g 12 hourly
Give the dosage for Metronidazole as a treatment therapy for a Brain Abscess
Metronidazole PO, 400mg 8 hourly or IV, 500mg 8 hourly
What are the possible long-term effects of a Brain Abscess?
Hemiparesis
Seizures
Visual deficits.
Why is it important for the nurse to perform ongoing neurological assessment?
Performing ongoing neurological assessment which will alert the nurse to changes in intracranial pressure, which may indicate a need for more aggressive intervention.
Why are corticosteroids given to patients with a Brain Abscess?
To reduce cerebral inflammation
What anti-seizure medications that can be given as a prophylaxis?
Phenytoin
Phenobarbital
Give an example of a corticosteroid that is given to a patient with a Brain Abscess
Dexamethasone
What should be closely monitored by the nurse to a patient with a Brain Abscess when corticosteroids are prescribed?
Blood laboratory test results, specifically blood glucose and serum potassium levels
