Pathophys/Etiology
This condition is an acute inflammation of the meninges surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
What is meningitis.
This test verifies meningitis by analyzing CSF.
What is a lumbar puncture.
Fever, severe headache, and nuchal rigidity are classic signs of this condition.
What is meningitis.
This drug is first‑line for HSV encephalitis.
What is acyclovir (Zovirax)?
This type of isolation is required for meningococcal meningitis.
What is respiratory isolation.
What is the most common type of meningitis.
What is viral meningitis.
Elevated neutrophils in CSF suggest this type of meningitis.
What is bacterial meningitis.
This symptom causes discomfort with exposure to light.
What is photophobia.
These drugs are started immediately when meningitis is suspected.
What are IV antibiotics.
Elevating this part of the bed helps reduce ICP.
What is the head of the bed.
Brain abscesses most commonly result from direct extension of infection from these areas (list at two).
What are the ears, sinuses, teeth, or mastoid process?
This test detects viral DNA or RNA and is highly sensitive for CNS infections.
What is PCR.
Drowsiness, confusion, and seizures indicate this dangerous complication.
What is increased intracranial pressure (ICP)?
This steroid may be given to reduce brain inflammation and increased ICP.
What is dexamethasone.
Nursing care for photophobia.
What is a dark room and/or cool compress over the eyes.
A non‑blanching rash with petechiae suggests infection with this organism.
What is Neisseria meningitidis?
This osmotic diuretic is used to reduce ICP.
What is mannitol.
This antiseizure medication is commonly used in meningitis.
What is phenytoin (Dilantin).
This organism once caused most cases of bacterial meningitis but declined due to vaccination.
What is Haemophilus influenzae? (prevented by HIB vaccine)
This analgesic provides headache relief without heavy sedation.
What is codeine.