What is the primary mode of transmission for viral meningitis?

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:

This statement is not appropriate because it assumes a specific diagnosis without further assessment or confirmation. Meningitis can be caused by various pathogens, so it's essential not to jump to conclusions based solely on symptoms.

Choice B rationale:

This statement is appropriate because the patient's symptoms, including fever, headache, stiff neck, and photophobia, are consistent with bacterial meningitis. Bacterial meningitis is a severe infection that requires prompt treatment to prevent complications.

Choice C rationale:

This statement is not appropriate because fungal meningitis typically presents differently and is more common in individuals with compromised immune systems. There is no evidence from the presented symptoms to suggest fungal meningitis.

Choice D rationale:

This statement is not appropriate because parasitic meningitis is very rare and typically associated with specific exposures or travel history. There is no information to support this as a likely cause of the client's symptoms.

Choice E rationale:

This statement is not appropriate because meningococcal septicemia is a different condition from meningitis. While both can be caused by Neisseria meningitidis bacteria, septicemia is characterized by a bloodstream infection, while meningitis affects the meninges.