A nurse is preparing a child who has suspected bacterial meningitis for a lumbar puncture. Which of the following cerebrospinal fluid findings supports the diagnosis?
Decreased WBCs.
Elevated glucose.
Elevated total protein.
Decreased pressure.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
Decreased white blood cells (WBCs) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) would not support the diagnosis of bacterial meningitis. In bacterial meningitis, the presence of bacteria triggers an inflammatory response, leading to an increase in WBCs in the CSF (pleocytosis).
Choice B rationale:
Elevated glucose levels in CSF would actually be more consistent with viral rather than bacterial meningitis. In bacterial meningitis, glucose levels are typically decreased due to the high metabolic demands of bacteria on the glucose present in the CSF.
Choice C rationale:
Elevated total protein in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is indicative of inflammation and disruption of the blood-brain barrier. Bacterial meningitis causes an intense inflammatory response, leading to an increase in total protein in the CSF.
Choice D rationale:
Decreased pressure in the CSF would not be a characteristic finding in bacterial meningitis. In fact, bacterial meningitis often leads to an increase in CSF pressure due to the inflammation and accumulation of inflammatory cells and proteins.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Popcorn can be problematic for a child with Crohn's disease. Crohn's disease is characterized by inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, and certain high-fiber foods like popcorn can exacerbate symptoms, causing discomfort and potential irritation of the intestinal lining.
Choice B rationale:
Hot dogs are typically high in fat and can be difficult to digest, which can trigger symptoms in a child with Crohn's disease. Additionally, processed meats like hot dogs might contain additives that could worsen inflammation in the digestive tract.
Choice C rationale:
Dried apricots are also not the best choice for a child with Crohn's disease. Dried fruits are concentrated sources of fiber and can be tough on the digestive system, potentially leading to abdominal pain and diarrhea in individuals with inflamed intestines.
Choice D rationale:
Plain yogurt is a suitable food choice for a child with Crohn's disease. It is a good source of protein and calcium and contains probiotics that can promote gut health. Probiotics may help regulate the digestive system and alleviate some symptoms associated with Crohn's disease. However, individual tolerances may vary, so it's important to monitor the child's response to yogurt.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
A 2 cm scalp laceration, while a concern, is not the nurse's priority in this scenario. The child's head injury could potentially be serious, but priority should be given to neurological assessments and signs of increased intracranial pressure.
Choice B rationale:
Nasal discharge negative for glucose is not indicative of a major issue in this context. While cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaking from the nose after head trauma is a concern, it is not mentioned in this scenario, and this choice does not take precedence over other neurological signs.
Choice C rationale:
This is the correct answer. Asymmetric pupils can be a sign of a serious neurological issue, such as a brain injury or increased intracranial pressure. It requires immediate attention and further evaluation to assess the child's neurological status and determine the extent of the injury.
Choice D rationale:
A negative Babinski reflex is a normal finding in this context and does not require immediate priority attention. The Babinski reflex is typically present in infants and disappears as the child grows older. Its absence is expected in older children and adults.
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