Meningococcal Septicaemia Flashcards
1
Q
What type of rash can be present in meningococcal?
A
- a typical purpuric rash
- it may be as subtle as a single ‘spot’
2
Q
How is meningococcal transmitted?
A
- close personal exposure to airway secretions/droplets
3
Q
Recite the CPG for Meningococcal Septicaemia
A
4
Q
What are some signs of septicaemia?
A
- fever
- rigors
- joint and muscle pain
- cold hands and feet
- tachycardia, hypotension
- tachypnoea
5
Q
What are some meningeal signs?
A
- Headache
- photophobia
- neck stiffness
- nausea and vomiting
- altered conscious state
6
Q
What is the treatment for Meningococcal Septicaemia if the patient has an IV?
A
- Ceftriaxone 1g IV
- dilute with water for injection to make 10 ml
- administer slowly over 2 mins
- If inadequate perfusion treat as per Inadequate Perfusion CPG
7
Q
What is the treatment for Meningococcal Septicaemia if the patient has no IV access?
A
- Ceftriaxone 1g IM
- Dilute with 3.5ml 1% Lignocaine HCL to make 4ml
- Administer into upper lateral thigh or other large muscle mass
8
Q
What is meningococcal?
A
It is a serious infection caused by the meningitis bacteria. Meningococcal bacteria live harmlessly in the throat and nose of 20% of the population at any given time and only become a concern when dangerous strains become invasive, causing meningitis and/or septicaemia
9
Q
What is meningococcal septicaemia?
A
- It occurs when meningococcal bacteria enters the bloodstream and rapidly multiplying uncontrollably.
- it is the most serious and deadly type of meningococcal disease and can lead to death in a few hours
