A nurse is caring for a patient with suspected meningitis. Which diagnostic procedure should the nurse expect to be performed to confirm the diagnosis?

Choice A rationale:

A blood culture is a test used to detect bacteria or other microorganisms in the bloodstream. While it can be helpful in diagnosing bacterial infections, it is not the most important test for confirming meningitis. The presence of bacteria in the blood does not necessarily confirm meningitis, as the infection may not have spread to the bloodstream yet.

Choice B rationale:

A throat swab is used to collect samples from the throat to identify infections such as strep throat. While throat infections can sometimes lead to complications like meningitis, a throat swab is not the most important test for confirming the diagnosis of meningitis. The infection may not be present in the throat, and direct examination of cerebrospinal fluid is necessary to confirm meningitis.

Choice C rationale:

A lumbar puncture, also known as a spinal tap, is the most important laboratory test to confirm the diagnosis of meningitis. It involves collecting a sample of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the space around the spinal cord and brain. Analysis of the CSF can reveal the presence of bacteria or other pathogens, increased white blood cells, and other indicators of meningitis.

Choice D rationale:

A computed tomography (CT) scan is a diagnostic imaging test that uses X-rays to create detailed cross-sectional images of the body. While it can help identify structural abnormalities in the brain, such as bleeding or tumors, it is not the primary test for confirming meningitis. CT scans may show signs of inflammation, but they cannot definitively diagnose meningitis or distinguish between bacterial, viral, or fungal causes.

Choice A rationale:

All types of meningitis cannot be prevented by vaccination. While vaccinations are available for certain types of bacterial and viral meningitis, they do not cover all possible pathogens that can cause the disease.

Choice B rationale:

Meningitis can be prevented through prophylaxis measures, but this statement is not entirely accurate. Prophylaxis may be given to close contacts of individuals with certain types of bacterial meningitis to prevent its spread, but it does not apply to all cases of meningitis.

Choice C rationale:

Infection control measures are effective in preventing meningitis outbreaks. This statement is incorrect as infection control measures are crucial in controlling the spread of infections, but they cannot entirely prevent all cases of meningitis.

Choice D rationale:

Hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing and proper respiratory etiquette, play a significant role in preventing meningitis transmission. By reducing the spread of respiratory and oral pathogens, the risk of meningitis can be lowered. However, it is important to note that not all forms of meningitis are entirely preventable through hygiene practices alone, which is why vaccination remains a critical preventive measure for specific types of meningitis.