Meningitis Flashcards
What are the hallmark symptoms of bacterial meningitis?
High fever
Stiff neck
Severe headache
Confusion
Photophobia
Petechiae.
What diagnostic test is crucial for diagnosing bacterial meningitis?
Lumbar puncture to analyse cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)
What laboratory findings in CSF are consistent with bacterial meningitis?
Low glucose
High protein
Elevated white blood cell count
Cloudy CSF.
What precautions should be taken with a patient suspected of having bacterial meningitis?
Droplet precautions, including masking the patient during transport and wearing masks when in the patient’s room.
How does bacterial meningitis differ from viral meningitis?
Bacterial meningitis is a life-threatening emergency requiring antibiotics, while viral meningitis is self-limiting and typically resolves without specific treatment.
What are the early signs of increased intracranial pressure (ICP)?
Severe headache
Nausea
Vomiting
Altered consciousness
Possible seizures.
Why is Mannitol administered in bacterial meningitis?
To reduce intracranial pressure by promoting diuresis.
What side effect of codeine should be closely monitored in patients with meningitis?
Codeine can depress the level of consciousness, which is already affected in meningitis.
What are the seizure precautions for a patient with bacterial meningitis?
Administer antiepileptic drugs like phenytoin
Monitor for seizure activity
Ensure a safe environment to prevent injury during seizures.
What is the importance of neurological checks in managing bacterial meningitis?
To detect changes in the patient’s neurological status, which could indicate worsening of the disease.
What organism most commonly causes bacterial meningitis in adults?
Streptococcus pneumoniae
Neisseria meningitidis.
How does photophobia present in patients with meningitis?
Sensitivity to light, causing discomfort and difficulty being in brightly lit environments.
What is petechiae, and why is it significant in bacterial meningitis?
Petechiae are small red or purple spots caused by bleeding under the skin, often associated with meningococcal meningitis.
Why are droplet precautions essential for patients with bacterial meningitis?
To prevent the spread of respiratory droplets containing infectious agents to others.
What does a turbid appearance of CSF indicate?
Cloudy or turbid CSF suggests the presence of infection, such as bacterial meningitis.
What is the expected WBC count in bacterial meningitis?
An elevated WBC count, typically above 1,000 cells/µL.
What is the role of corticosteroids in the management of bacterial meningitis?
Corticosteroids, like Dexamethasone, reduce inflammation and swelling in the brain.
What should be included in patient education upon discharge after bacterial meningitis treatment?
Rest, gradual return to normal activities, adequate nutrition, and awareness of potential long-term complications like seizures or cognitive changes.
What is Kernig’s sign, and how does it relate to meningitis?
Kernig’s sign is the inability to straighten the leg when the hip is flexed at a 90-degree angle, a common sign of meningitis.
What is Brudzinski’s sign, and how is it tested?
Brudzinski’s sign is when passive flexion of the neck causes involuntary flexion of the knees and hips, indicative of meningeal irritation.
How does the lumbar puncture procedure help diagnose meningitis?
By analysing cerebrospinal fluid for glucose, protein, WBC, and bacteria, the lumbar puncture can confirm bacterial or viral meningitis.
What medications are typically used to manage fever in bacterial meningitis?
Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen
Why is strict I&O monitoring important in bacterial meningitis?
To ensure proper hydration and monitor for signs of fluid imbalance, which can affect intracranial pressure.
What is the potential long-term impact of untreated bacterial meningitis?
Cognitive impairments
Hearing loss
Seizures
Hydrocephalus
Death
