Neurological Alterations (Meningitis)

Question 1

What is Meningitis (definition) ?

Answer 1

Inflammation of the covering of the spinal cord and brain

Question 2

What is the cause(s) of Meningitis ?

Answer 2

Either a viral or Bacterial infection

–> Primarily transmitted through the respiratory system OR a complication of an LP

Question 3

What are the signs and symptoms of Meningitis ?

Answer 3

• Chills & High fever
• Severe headache
• Disorientation that can progress to a coma
• Nausea & Vomiting
• Nuchal rigidity (stiff neck)
• Photophobia (where light hurts the eyes)
• Seizures
• A positive Kernig and Brudzinski signs

Question 4

Definition of Kernig Sign ?

Answer 4

Severe stiffness of the hamstrings, inability to straighten the leg when hips are flexed 90 degrees

Question 5

Definition of Brudzinski sign ?

Answer 5

Severe neck stiffness causes hips and knees to flex when the neck is flexed

Question 6

What are the Tx’s for Meningitis ?

Answer 6

• Corticosteroids (to decrease inflammation on brain & spinal cord)
• Antibiotics (if bacterial)
• Analgesics
• Anticonvulsants (if seizures are present)
• Droplet precautions (for bacterial, d/t respiratory nature)
• Contact precautions (if viral, b/c usually transmitted by feces)

Question 7

Bacterial Meningitis is very what ?

Answer 7

Very contagious

• those exposed need to seek medical care

Question 8

Bacterial Meningitis has a very high what, if not treated right away ?

Answer 8

Mortality rate

• Medical emergency if exposed! need to seek care!

Question 9

What are recommended for college students ?

Answer 9

Meningitis vaccines

Question 10

Viral Meningitis is commonly seen in who ?

Answer 10

Infants and children