Meningitis

Question 1

What is the most common symptom in meningitis?

Answer 1

Headache

Question 2

Explain meningitis to a patient (What is it?)

Answer 2

There is a protective layer which surrounds the brain + spine and this is called the meninges

Meningitis is an infection of this layer

Question 3

How is meningitis spread?

Answer 3

Spread like any infection like a cold that ends up spreading to that protective membrane

(respiratory droplets or throat secretions)

Question 4

meningitis immediate mx

Answer 4

LP & septic screen

IV Abx (cef + amox) >= 7 days

fluids, O2, steroids (senior input)

Question 5

What question do we need to ask in regard to vaccines in ?meningitis?

Answer 5

Have they been vaccinated? MMR

Question 6

From a management point of view, who do we need to let know of whats gone on?

Answer 6

Public Health

Question 7

What is the prognosis of meningitis? (3)

Answer 7

Serious condition that can lead to a range of complications

=> Hearing loss / vision
=> recurrent seizures
=> Movement + balance problems

Some cases its fatal

Question 8

What do we need to offer parents / household members?

Answer 8

Prophylactic AB (rifampicin)

Question 9

After discharge from hospital, what do we need to arrange for the patient?

Answer 9

Hearing test for follow up

monitor head circumference