A nurse is caring for a child who has a suspected diagnosis of bacterial meningitis. Which of the following actions is the nurse's priority?
Document intake and output.
Administer antibiotics when available
Reduce environmental stimuli
Maintain seizure precaution
The Correct Answer is B
A) Document intake and output:
Documenting intake and output is an important nursing task, but it is not the top priority in a suspected case of bacterial meningitis. Timely administration of antibiotics to treat the infection takes precedence over documentation of intake and output.
B) Administer antibiotics when available.
Explanation:
Bacterial meningitis is a serious and potentially life-threatening infection of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. Rapid administration of antibiotics is crucial to effectively treat the infection and prevent its spread. Delay in antibiotic administration can lead to worsening symptoms and complications. Therefore, getting the appropriate antibiotics to the child as soon as they are available is the nurse's priority.
C) Reduce environmental stimuli:
Reducing environmental stimuli can be helpful in managing symptoms and providing comfort to the child with meningitis, but it is not the priority action. The immediate concern in a suspected case of bacterial meningitis is to treat the infection.
D) Maintain seizure precaution:
While maintaining seizure precautions is important, especially if the child has a history of seizures, it is not the top priority in a suspected case of bacterial meningitis. Administering antibiotics to treat the infection and prevent its progression is the primary concern.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D"]
Explanation
A) Preventing further Urinary Tract Infections:
This is a relevant priority for patients with reflux. Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is a condition where urine flows backward from the bladder into the ureters and sometimes to the kidneys, increasing the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). Preventing UTIs is important because recurring infections can lead to more severe kidney problems and complications. Teaching patients and caregivers about hygiene, proper voiding techniques, and recognizing UTI symptoms is crucial to minimize the risk of infections.
B) Preventing kidney damage:
Preventing kidney damage is a significant priority for patients with reflux. If urine refluxes back into the kidneys, it can lead to kidney damage over time. This damage can affect kidney function and potentially lead to chronic kidney disease. Monitoring kidney function, managing UTIs promptly, and considering medical or surgical interventions to correct reflux are all important strategies to prevent kidney damage.
C) The chances of needing brain surgery:
The chances of needing brain surgery are not directly related to reflux. Reflux primarily involves the urinary system, specifically the flow of urine from the bladder to the kidneys. Brain surgery is not a relevant consideration in the context of reflux or its management.
D) Antibiotic usage teaching with the presence of an infection:
This is an important aspect of care for patients with reflux who develop urinary tract infections. UTIs are common complications of reflux, and appropriate use of antibiotics is crucial to treat infections effectively and prevent further complications. Teaching patients and caregivers about the importance of completing prescribed antibiotic courses, recognizing signs of infection, and adhering to medical advice is essential to manage UTIs in the presence of reflux.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Vaccinations to prevent pneumococcal and Haemophilus influenzae type B meningitis are available.
Explanation: This statement is true. Vaccinations to prevent certain types of bacterial meningitis are available. Pneumococcal and Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib) vaccines are included in routine childhood immunization schedules to protect against the bacteria that can cause meningitis and other serious infections. These vaccines have significantly reduced the incidence of bacterial meningitis in infants and children.
B) Often a genetic predisposition to meningitis is found.
Explanation: This statement is generally false. While there may be some genetic factors that influence susceptibility to infections, including meningitis, genetic predisposition is not a primary consideration when discussing the risk of meningitis. Meningitis is more commonly caused by bacterial or viral infections, and genetic predisposition is not a significant factor in its occurrence.
C) Meningitis rarely occurs during infancy.
Explanation: This statement is false. Meningitis can occur in infants, including newborns. In fact, infants are one of the age groups at higher risk for meningitis due to their underdeveloped immune systems and susceptibility to infections. Bacterial meningitis, in particular, can be severe and life-threatening in infants.
D) Vaccination to prevent all types of meningitis is now available.
Explanation: This statement is not entirely accurate. While vaccinations are available to prevent certain types of bacterial meningitis (such as pneumococcal and Hib meningitis), there is no single vaccine that can prevent all types of meningitis. Meningitis can be caused by various bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens, and the vaccines target specific ones. It's important for caregivers to ensure that their infants receive recommended vaccines to protect against the most common causes of meningitis.
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