Which bacteria are most commonly responsible for bacterial meningitis in adults?

Choice A rationale:

Antibiotic therapy for the family members is not the most appropriate preventive measure for Haemophilus influenzae type b meningitis. While antibiotics are used to treat the infection, providing antibiotic therapy to family members does not prevent the spread of the bacteria to others.

Choice B rationale:

Prophylaxis for the patient's close contacts is the recommended preventive measure for Haemophilus influenzae type b meningitis. Close contacts of a patient with this type of meningitis, such as household members and daycare contacts, are at an increased risk of contracting the disease. Administering prophylactic antibiotics to these individuals can help prevent the transmission of the bacteria and reduce the likelihood of developing the infection.

Choice C rationale:

Hygiene education for school staff and students is not directly related to preventing the spread of Haemophilus influenzae type b meningitis. While hygiene education is essential for preventing the spread of infections in general, it is not specific to this particular type of meningitis.

Choice D rationale:

Outbreak management protocols for the community may be necessary if there is an outbreak of Haemophilus influenzae type b meningitis. However, this choice does not address the immediate preventive measure needed for the diagnosed pediatric patient and their close contacts.

Choice E rationale:

Vaccination against Neisseria meningitidis is not directly relevant to preventing Haemophilus influenzae type b meningitis. These are two different types of bacteria that cause different forms of meningitis, and vaccination against Neisseria meningitidis would not protect against Haemophilus influenzae type b meningitis.

Choice A rationale:

This statement is incorrect. A lumbar puncture involves the insertion of a needle, not a catheter, into the subarachnoid space of the spinal canal to collect cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) It is not done in blood vessels.

Choice B rationale:

This statement is accurate. A lumbar puncture is performed to obtain a sample of cerebrospinal fluid for analysis. It helps to diagnose and differentiate between bacterial and viral meningitis based on CSF characteristics, such as cell count, glucose levels, and presence of bacteria or viruses.

Choice C rationale:

This statement is incorrect. A lumbar puncture is uncomfortable but is typically not an extremely painful procedure. It is often done with local anesthesia, and the discomfort is usually temporary.

Choice D rationale:

This statement is incorrect. During a lumbar puncture, the patient is usually asked to curl up in a fetal position, bringing the knees close to the chest and the chin to the chest. This position helps to widen the spaces between the spinal bones, making it easier for the healthcare provider to insert the needle into the subarachnoid space. It does not involve bending the neck forward.