Meningitis

Question 1

define meningitis

Answer 1

inflammation of the protective membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord

Question 2

list the signs and symptoms of meningitis

Answer 2

• TRIAD: rigidity, fever, and altered mental status
• increased irritability
• neck stiffness and pain
• neck retraction
• high fever
• lethargy
• light sensitivity
• seizures
• increased ICP

Question 3

what is Kernig’s sign?

Answer 3

the inability to straighten the lower legs after hips have already been flexed 90 degrees

Question 4

what is Brudzinski’s sign?

Answer 4

the knees are automatically brought up towards the body when the neck is bent forward or pain is elicited in the legs when bent