A nurse is assessing an older adult patient for possible meningitis. Which of the following symptoms would the nurse be particularly concerned about in this age group?
Nuchal rigidity.
Rash.
Irritability.
Altered mental status.
Photophobia.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale:
Nuchal rigidity (stiff neck) is a classic symptom of meningitis, but it is not particularly concerning in older adults as it is in younger individuals. Older adults may have a less pronounced neck stiffness due to age-related changes.
Choice B rationale:
Rash can be a symptom of certain types of meningitis, such as meningococcal meningitis, but it is not specific to older adults. Moreover, older adults may not exhibit a rash even in cases of meningococcal meningitis.
Choice C rationale:
Irritability is a vague symptom and may not be specific to meningitis in older adults. It can be caused by various factors and does not raise significant concern for meningitis.
Choice D rationale:
Altered mental status, such as confusion, delirium, or decreased level of consciousness, is particularly concerning in older adults with suspected meningitis. Older adults may not always present with classic symptoms like neck stiffness, and altered mental status may be the primary indicator of central nervous system involvement.
Choice E rationale:
Photophobia is a common symptom of meningitis, but it is not specific to older adults. It may be present in both younger and older patients with meningitis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Viral meningitis is caused by viral infections and is more commonly seen in the summer and fall months rather than in tropical regions during winter.
Choice B rationale:
Bacterial meningitis is more common in tropical regions during the winter season. It is caused by bacterial infections and can be severe and life-threatening if not promptly treated. The colder weather in the winter may increase the transmission of bacteria responsible for causing meningitis.
Choice C rationale:
Fungal meningitis is not specifically associated with any particular season or region. It can occur in individuals with weakened immune systems, but it is not more common in tropical regions during winter.
Choice D rationale:
Parasitic meningitis is primarily caused by parasites and is not typically associated with any specific season or region. It is a rare form of meningitis and is not more prevalent in tropical regions during winter.
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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