Which bacteria are most commonly responsible for bacterial meningitis in adults?
Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)
Neisseria meningitidis (meningococcal)
Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcal)
Escherichia coli.
Group B streptococcus.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) was a common cause of bacterial meningitis in the past, especially in children, but its incidence has significantly decreased due to the widespread use of the Hib vaccine.
Choice B rationale:
Neisseria meningitidis (meningococcal) can cause meningitis and is an important pathogen, but it is more commonly associated with meningitis in children and young adults.
Choice C rationale:
Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcal) is the most common cause of bacterial meningitis in adults. It is a gram-positive bacterium that can lead to severe infections, including pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections.
Choice D rationale:
Escherichia coli is a bacterial species typically associated with urinary tract infections and gastrointestinal illnesses. While it can rarely cause meningitis in certain populations, it is not the most common cause of bacterial meningitis in adults.
Choice E rationale:
Group B streptococcus is a significant cause of neonatal meningitis but is less commonly responsible for meningitis in adults.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
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.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Ingestion of contaminated water is the primary mode of transmission for certain gastrointestinal infections, such as viral gastroenteritis, but it is not the main route for viral meningitis transmission.
Choice B rationale:
Mosquito or tick bites are associated with the transmission of various vector-borne diseases, such as West Nile virus, Lyme disease, and others. However, they are not the primary mode of transmission for viral meningitis.
Choice C rationale:
Direct contact with respiratory droplets or saliva from an infected person is the most common mode of transmission for viral meningitis. Viruses causing meningitis, such as enteroviruses, are often present in respiratory secretions and saliva.
Choice D rationale:
Inhalation of fungal spores is related to the transmission of certain fungal infections, such as aspergillosis or histoplasmosis, but it is not the primary mode of transmission for viral meningitis.
Choice E rationale:
Contact with contaminated soil is not a typical mode of transmission for viral meningitis. It might be relevant for some soil-transmitted infections but not for viral meningitis.
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