flashcards_bacterial_meningitis
What antibiotics are recommended for bacterial meningitis in children <3 months old?
IV ampicillin/amoxicillin + cefotaxime.
What antibiotic is recommended for bacterial meningitis in children >3 months old?
IV ceftriaxone.
What supportive therapies are recommended for bacterial meningitis?
Analgesia and antipyretics, oxygen, anticonvulsant therapy if needed, IV fluids (0.9% NaCl + 5% dextrose), vasopressors if hypotensive despite fluid resuscitation.
What should be done if bacterial meningitis is suspected in primary care?
Administer a single dose of IM/IV benzylpenicillin and arrange emergency medical transfer to hospital.
What additional antibiotic should be added if the patient has recent foreign travel?
Vancomycin.
When may dexamethasone be given for bacterial meningitis in children >3 months old?
If CSF analysis shows frankly purulent CSF, CSF WBC > 1000/μL, raised CSF WBC + protein concentration > 1 g/L, bacteria on Gram stain.
When should steroids not be used in bacterial meningitis?
In meningococcal septicaemia.
Who should be notified in the case of bacterial meningitis?
Notify the Health Protection Unit.
What follow-up care should be provided for children after discharge from bacterial meningitis?
Reviewed by a paediatrician 4-6 weeks after discharge, offer formal audiological assessment.
What prophylactic treatment should be offered to contacts of bacterial meningitis patients?
Ciprofloxacin is preferred over rifampicin.
What general advice is recommended for managing chickenpox?
Encourage adequate fluid intake, dress appropriately to avoid overheating or shivering, wear smooth, cotton fabrics, keep nails short to minimize damage from scratching.
What are the PACES tips for explaining bacterial meningitis diagnosis and management?
Explain the diagnosis, seriousness of the condition, effective antibiotics, hospital admission for treatment and monitoring, possible long-term complications (hearing loss), follow-up with paediatricians in 4-6 weeks, offer ciprofloxacin prophylaxis for contacts, support from Meningitis Now.
