A nurse is assessing the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of a client suspected to have meningitis. Which CSF parameter indicates bacterial or fungal infection?
Cloudy appearance.
Increased pressure.
Decreased glucose.
Elevated protein levels.
The Correct Answer is C
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The recommended preventive measure for a client planning to travel to a high-risk area for meningitis is to take prophylactic antibiotics. Meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges, the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, and it can be caused by various pathogens, including bacteria. Travel to high-risk areas may increase the risk of exposure to meningitis-causing bacteria. Prophylactic antibiotics are given to individuals at high risk of contracting bacterial meningitis to prevent infection or reduce the severity if exposed. Commonly used antibiotics for prophylaxis include ciprofloxacin, rifampin, and others, depending on the specific high-risk area and its predominant pathogens.
Choice B rationale:
Getting vaccinated against mumps is not the recommended preventive measure for meningitis caused by other pathogens. Mumps is a viral infection caused by the mumps virus, and while it can cause complications, it is not a common cause of meningitis. The appropriate preventive measure for mumps is vaccination with the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine.
Choice C rationale:
Practicing good hand hygiene is essential for preventing the spread of infections in general, but it is not specifically targeted at preventing meningitis. Meningitis is usually transmitted through respiratory droplets or direct contact with infected individuals. While hand hygiene can help reduce the risk of contracting various infections, it is not the primary preventive measure for meningitis.
Choice D rationale:
Avoiding close contact with people with respiratory infections is a good practice to reduce the risk of various respiratory infections, including those that can cause meningitis. However, it is not the recommended specific preventive measure for a client planning to travel to a high-risk area for meningitis. Prophylactic antibiotics are the more appropriate choice in this situation to directly target potential meningitis-causing bacteria.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Amphotericin B is an antifungal drug that may be used to treat fungal meningitis. It is effective against a wide range of fungal pathogens and is often considered the drug of choice for severe systemic fungal infections, including fungal meningitis.
Choice B rationale:
Fluconazole is another antifungal drug used to treat fungal meningitis. It is effective against certain types of fungi, especially Candida species, which are known to cause fungal meningitis in some cases.
Choice E rationale:
Voriconazole is a broad-spectrum antifungal medication that is also used to treat fungal meningitis. It is particularly effective against Aspergillus species, which can cause invasive fungal infections, including meningitis.
Choice C rationale:
Albendazole is an antiparasitic drug and is not used to treat fungal meningitis. It is primarily indicated for the treatment of parasitic infections, such as certain types of worms.
Choice D rationale:
Ivermectin is another antiparasitic drug and is not used in the treatment of fungal meningitis. It is commonly used to treat various parasitic infections but has no activity against fungal pathogens.
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