A client with suspected meningitis presents with pink-colored cerebrospinal fluid during a lumbar puncture. What does this finding indicate?
Normal CSF.
Blood contamination.
Bacterial infection.
Dehydration.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
If the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) were normal, it would have clear and colorless appearance. Pink-colored CSF indicates the presence of an abnormality, ruling out the normal CSF as an option.
Choice B rationale:
The pink color of the CSF suggests blood contamination, which can occur during the lumbar puncture procedure. The presence of blood can alter the CSF composition and lead to false interpretations of laboratory results.
Choice C rationale:
Bacterial infection may present with cloudy or purulent CSF, but it is not specifically associated with pink-colored CSF. Other signs, such as elevated white blood cell count and elevated protein levels, would be more indicative of a bacterial infection.
Choice D rationale:
Dehydration does not typically cause pink-colored CSF. Dehydration may lead to a higher concentration of solutes in the CSF, but it does not affect its coloration.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
A cloudy appearance of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) can indicate the presence of white blood cells and bacteria, suggesting an infection. However, it is not specific to bacterial or fungal infection and can also be seen in viral meningitis or non-infectious conditions like multiple sclerosis.
Choice B rationale:
Increased pressure in the CSF may occur in meningitis due to the inflammation and accumulation of fluid. While it can raise suspicion for meningitis, it is not specific to bacterial or fungal infection and can also be observed in other intracranial conditions.
Choice C rationale:
Decreased glucose levels in the CSF are a characteristic finding in bacterial or fungal meningitis. The invading bacteria or fungi consume glucose, leading to lower levels in the CSF compared to normal blood glucose levels. This finding helps differentiate bacterial or fungal meningitis from viral meningitis, where glucose levels are usually normal.
Choice D rationale:
Elevated protein levels in the CSF can be seen in various conditions, including meningitis. While it indicates increased inflammation and breakdown of cells, it is not specific to bacterial or fungal infection and can be present in viral or other forms of meningitis.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Ingestion of contaminated water is the primary mode of transmission for certain gastrointestinal infections, such as viral gastroenteritis, but it is not the main route for viral meningitis transmission.
Choice B rationale:
Mosquito or tick bites are associated with the transmission of various vector-borne diseases, such as West Nile virus, Lyme disease, and others. However, they are not the primary mode of transmission for viral meningitis.
Choice C rationale:
Direct contact with respiratory droplets or saliva from an infected person is the most common mode of transmission for viral meningitis. Viruses causing meningitis, such as enteroviruses, are often present in respiratory secretions and saliva.
Choice D rationale:
Inhalation of fungal spores is related to the transmission of certain fungal infections, such as aspergillosis or histoplasmosis, but it is not the primary mode of transmission for viral meningitis.
Choice E rationale:
Contact with contaminated soil is not a typical mode of transmission for viral meningitis. It might be relevant for some soil-transmitted infections but not for viral meningitis.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.