(Select all that apply): A nurse is providing care for a client with meningitis. What are the appropriate nursing interventions for this client? (Select all that apply)
Administering intravenous fluids.
Applying warm compresses to the forehead.
Providing dim lighting and minimizing noise.
Giving prophylactic antibiotics.
Monitoring vital signs and neurological status.
Correct Answer : A,C,D,E
Choice A rationale:
Administering intravenous fluids is an appropriate nursing intervention for a client with meningitis. Meningitis can cause dehydration due to fever, decreased oral intake, and increased fluid loss. IV fluids help maintain hydration and prevent complications.
Choice B rationale:
Applying warm compresses to the forehead is not a standard nursing intervention for meningitis. Fever is a common symptom of meningitis, and while comfort measures may be used to manage fever, warm compresses on the forehead are not specific to meningitis and may not be well-tolerated by some patients.
Choice C rationale:
Providing dim lighting and minimizing noise are appropriate nursing interventions for a client with meningitis. Meningitis can cause sensitivity to light and sound, and creating a calm and quiet environment can help reduce discomfort and promote healing.
Choice D rationale:
Giving prophylactic antibiotics is an appropriate nursing intervention for bacterial meningitis. Once the diagnosis of bacterial meningitis is confirmed or suspected, antibiotics should be initiated promptly to control the infection and prevent complications.
Choice E rationale:
Monitoring vital signs and neurological status is crucial for a client with meningitis. Vital signs such as temperature, heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure should be closely monitored to assess for any signs of worsening condition or complications. Neurological assessments help identify changes in the client's mental status, reflexes, and cranial nerve function.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Blood culture is not the appropriate diagnostic procedure for confirming meningitis. While blood cultures can identify bacteria or other pathogens in the bloodstream, it may not directly confirm meningitis, as the infection is primarily located in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)
Choice B rationale:
Urinalysis is not the appropriate diagnostic procedure for confirming meningitis. Urinalysis helps in detecting urinary tract infections or kidney-related issues, but it does not provide relevant information about meningitis.
Choice C rationale:
Lumbar puncture and CSF analysis are essential in diagnosing meningitis. This procedure involves inserting a needle into the spinal canal to collect a sample of CSF, which is then analyzed for signs of infection, such as elevated white blood cell count, increased protein levels, and the presence of bacteria or viruses. It helps differentiate between bacterial, viral, or fungal causes and guides appropriate treatment.
Choice D rationale:
A chest X-ray is not directly related to diagnosing meningitis. It is used to evaluate lung and heart conditions, making it irrelevant in confirming meningitis.
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.
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