The nurse is caring for a patient undergoing a lumbar puncture by the provider. Select the priority nursing intervention the nurse would complete after the procedure.

Choice A reason: This is incorrect. Administering a dose of a prescribed antiepileptic drug is an appropriate intervention, but it should be done during the seizure, not after. Positioning the person supine is also not recommended, as it can compromise the airway and increase the risk of aspiration.

Choice B reason: This is incorrect. Wrapping the patient in warm blankets and hyperextending their neck are both harmful actions, as they can increase the body temperature and obstruct the airway. The patient should be kept cool and comfortable, and their head should be tilted to the side or supported with a pillow.

Choice C reason: This is incorrect. Offering the patient a crossword to work on to promote mental stimulation is not an essential intervention, and it may not be feasible or appropriate for a patient who has just experienced a prolonged seizure. The patient may need rest and observation, not cognitive tasks.

Choice D reason: This is correct. Establishing that the patient has a patent airway after the seizure ends and assessing for breathing are the most important interventions, as they ensure the oxygenation and ventilation of the patient. The nurse should also monitor the vital signs, neurological status, and blood glucose levels of the patient.

Choice A reason: This is correct. Monitoring of neurologic status is a priority intervention for a patient with bacterial meningitis, as the infection can cause inflammation and damage to the brain and spinal cord. The nurse should assess the patient's level of consciousness, pupillary response, cranial nerve function, and signs of increased intracranial pressure.

Choice B reason: This is incorrect. Infusion of large volumes of isotonic intravenous fluids is not indicated for a patient with bacterial meningitis, as it can worsen the cerebral edema and increase the intracranial pressure. The patient should receive adequate hydration, but not excessive fluids.

Choice C reason: This is incorrect. Standard precautions are not sufficient for a patient with bacterial meningitis, as the infection can be transmitted through respiratory droplets. The patient should be placed on droplet precautions, which include wearing a mask, gloves, and gown, and limiting the contact with other patients and visitors.

Choice D reason: This is incorrect. Distraction activities to reduce long periods of sleep are not appropriate for a patient with bacterial meningitis, as the patient may need rest and sedation to reduce the agitation and pain. The nurse should provide a quiet and dark environment, and avoid unnecessary stimuli that can increase the intracranial pressure.