Meningitis Flashcards
(20 cards)
What is Meningitis?
Inflammation of the meninges covering the brain and spinal cord.
Can be bacterial (more severe) or viral (more common and usually less serious). Most serious form: Bacterial Meningitis requires immediate treatment due to high risk of complications and death.
What is Encephalitis?
Inflammation of the brain tissue itself, often caused by viruses.
May coexist with meningitis, termed ‘meningoencephalitis’.
What are the general symptoms of Meningitis?
- Fever
- Rash
- Severe headache
- Nausea/Vomiting
- Nuchal rigidity
- Photophobia
Meningococcal meningitis often causes a petechial or purpuric rash.
What are the advanced symptoms of Meningitis?
- Decreased level of consciousness (LOC)
- Increased intracranial pressure (ICP)
- Seizures
- Coma
What is the purpose of a Blood Culture in Meningitis diagnostics?
To detect bloodstream infection.
What does CBC test for in Meningitis diagnostics?
Looks for elevated WBCs, especially neutrophils.
What is the gold standard for diagnosing Meningitis?
Lumbar Puncture (LP) to analyze CSF.
What precautions should be taken for a patient with suspected bacterial Meningitis?
Droplet Precautions: gown, gloves, surgical mask.
What are anticipated nursing interventions for Meningitis?
- Monitor neuro status closely
- Monitor ICP
- Administer antibiotics ASAP
- Pain and fever control
- Seizure precautions
- Hydration
- Supportive care
- Education on antibiotics and vaccinations
What does Kernig’s Sign indicate?
Resistance or pain in the hamstrings when trying to extend the leg.
How is Kernig’s Sign performed?
Flex the hip and knee to 90 degrees, then attempt to straighten the leg at the knee.
What does Brudzinski’s Sign indicate?
Involuntary flexion of the hips and knees.
How is Brudzinski’s Sign performed?
Gently lift the patient’s head while lying flat, flexing the neck toward the chest.
True or False: Meningitis can only be caused by bacterial infections.
False.
What is the common time of year for Meningitis outbreaks?
Late winter and early spring.
What populations are commonly affected by Meningitis?
- College students
- Military
- Immunocompromised individuals
Fill in the blank: Meningitis often causes _______ due to meningeal irritation.
severe headache.
What is a common cause of nausea and vomiting in Meningitis?
Increased intracranial pressure (ICP).
What are the signs of increased intracranial pressure in Meningitis?
- Decreased LOC
- Seizures
- Coma
What is the mnemonic to remember Kernig’s and Brudzinski’s signs?
‘B before K’ → Brudzinski = Brain (head), Kernig = Knee.
