A 10-month-old infant with bacterial meningitis was just started on antibiotic therapy. Which nursing action is especially important in this situation?
Administer oral gentamicin
Encourage the child to drink 3.000 mL of fluid per day
Wear a mask while providing care
Flex the child's neck every 4 hours to maintain range of motion
The Correct Answer is C
A. Gentamicin is typically administered intravenously, not orally, for serious infections like meningitis due to poor oral absorption.
B. Encouraging 3,000 mL of fluid is excessive and inappropriate for a 10-month-old, risking fluid overload.
C. Wearing a mask is an essential infection control measure when caring for an infant with bacterial meningitis, especially meningococcal meningitis, which can be highly contagious and transmitted via respiratory droplets.
D. Forcing neck flexion can cause severe pain and is contraindicated in meningitis, where neck stiffness is a hallmark symptom.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. A lumbar punctureis the most important diagnostic test for suspected bacterial meningitis. It allows for analysis and culture of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)to identify the presence of bacteria, white blood cells, protein, and glucose levels.
B. Cerebral angiography is used to visualize blood vessels in the brain, not to diagnose infections like meningitis.
C. Myelography evaluates the spinal cord, nerve roots, and spinal canal using contrast dye but is not used for diagnosing meningitis.
D. Magnetoencephalography (MEG) is used to map brain activity, often for epilepsy or brain tumors, and is not relevant for diagnosing meningitis.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. ALS primarily affects motor neurons, leading to muscle weakness and paralysis, but cognitive and mental functions usually remain intact. This is important for family understanding and care planning.
B. The ability to swallow is often impaired in late stages due to muscle weakness.
C. Breathing is affected as respiratory muscles weaken, which is a critical concern in ALS progression.
D. Both upper and lower limb movements are typically affected as the disease advances, but cognitive status is a key point to clarify with families.
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