A client with suspected meningitis presents with fever, headache, stiff neck, and photophobia. Which statement by the nurse is appropriate for this situation?
"Based on your symptoms, it is likely that you have viral meningitis.”
"Your symptoms indicate that you might be suffering from bacterial meningitis.”
"I think you might have fungal meningitis due to your chronic symptoms.”
"It is possible that you have parasitic meningitis, given your exposure to contaminated water.”
"Your symptoms suggest that you have meningococcal septicemia.”
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
This statement is not appropriate because it assumes a specific diagnosis without further assessment or confirmation. Meningitis can be caused by various pathogens, so it's essential not to jump to conclusions based solely on symptoms.
Choice B rationale:
This statement is appropriate because the patient's symptoms, including fever, headache, stiff neck, and photophobia, are consistent with bacterial meningitis. Bacterial meningitis is a severe infection that requires prompt treatment to prevent complications.
Choice C rationale:
This statement is not appropriate because fungal meningitis typically presents differently and is more common in individuals with compromised immune systems. There is no evidence from the presented symptoms to suggest fungal meningitis.
Choice D rationale:
This statement is not appropriate because parasitic meningitis is very rare and typically associated with specific exposures or travel history. There is no information to support this as a likely cause of the client's symptoms.
Choice E rationale:
This statement is not appropriate because meningococcal septicemia is a different condition from meningitis. While both can be caused by Neisseria meningitidis bacteria, septicemia is characterized by a bloodstream infection, while meningitis affects the meninges.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
In a temperate region during summer, viral meningitis is more likely to be prevalent in the population. Viral meningitis is most commonly caused by enteroviruses, and these infections tend to be more common in the summer and early fall. Enteroviruses thrive in warm and humid conditions, contributing to the seasonal variation in viral meningitis cases.
Choice B rationale:
Bacterial meningitis can occur throughout the year and is not specifically associated with summer or temperate regions. Bacterial meningitis can result from various bacterial pathogens and is usually a more severe and life-threatening form of meningitis compared to viral meningitis.
Choice C rationale:
Fungal meningitis is not typically associated with temperate regions during the summer. Fungal meningitis is more commonly seen in individuals with compromised immune systems or in specific geographic regions with a higher prevalence of fungal infections.
Choice D rationale:
Parasitic meningitis is not prevalent in temperate regions during the summer. Parasitic meningitis is rare and is usually associated with specific parasitic infections, such as those caused by Naegleria fowleri or Angiostrongylus cantonensis, which are typically found in tropical or subtropical regions.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Meningococcal meningitis is not mainly seen in infants. It can affect individuals of all ages, but infants and young children are more susceptible to certain types of bacterial meningitis, such as Haemophilus influenzae type b.
Choice B rationale:
Meningococcal meningitis is primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets, close contact with an infected person, or exposure to contaminated respiratory or throat secretions. It is not primarily linked to regions with contaminated water.
Choice C rationale:
Meningococcal meningitis can progress rapidly and cause death within hours if left untreated. Therefore, early recognition and prompt medical treatment are essential to improve outcomes.
Choice D rationale:
The statement comparing meningococcal meningitis with fungal meningitis' mortality rate is not accurate. While meningococcal meningitis can be severe, fungal meningitis is generally associated with a higher mortality rate, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems.
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