When managing a suspected case of meningitis, what is the appropriate action regarding antibiotics?
Administer antibiotics only if the client has a high fever on two separate occasions
Start antibiotics immediately, even before confirmation of diagnosis
Wait for confirmation of diagnosis before starting antibiotics
Avoid antibiotics altogether as they are not effective against bacterial meningitis
The Correct Answer is B
A. Administer antibiotics only if the client has a high fever on two separate occasions – Waiting for multiple fevers delays critical treatment and is not evidence-based.
B. Start antibiotics immediately, even before confirmation of diagnosis – In suspected bacterial meningitis, early administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics is life-saving. Delaying treatment until confirmation can lead to rapid deterioration due to the severity and speed of disease progression.
C. Wait for confirmation of diagnosis before starting antibiotics – Delaying antibiotic treatment while waiting for lab confirmation (e.g., lumbar puncture) puts the patient at risk of worsening illness and complications.
D. Avoid antibiotics altogether as they are not effective against bacterial meningitis – Antibiotics are the mainstay of treatment for bacterial meningitis and significantly reduce mortality and morbidity.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. A decrease in Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score from 13 to 9 indicates worsening neurological status and possible deterioration, which requires immediate medical evaluation.
B. Pupils that are equal, round, and reactive are normal findings and not a concern.
C. A mild drop in heart rate from 76 to 70 bpm is within normal limits and not immediately concerning.
D. Repeated requests for narcotic pain medications may warrant assessment for pain or misuse but do not require immediate reporting compared to a significant GCS change.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Jugular distention is more commonly associated with right-sided heart failure.
B. Dependent edema is typically seen in right-sided heart failure due to systemic venous congestion.
C. Nocturnal polyuria can occur in heart failure but is less specific.
D. Frothy sputum is a classic sign of left-sided heart failure due to pulmonary congestion and edema caused by impaired left ventricular function.
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