Menigitis with Children

Menigitis with Children

1. 2 Labs to be reviewed.

   • Laboratory Tests
     • 1. Blood Cultures
       • 2. CBC
         • CSP that appears cloudy ( bacterial) or clear (viral) Elevated WBC, Elevated Protein Levels, Decreased glucose (bacterial), Elevated CSF pressure.

2. DEFINE MENIGITIS

   • INflammation of the Meninges, which are the membranes that protect the brain and spinal cord.

3. PRECAUTIONS

   • Describe the infectious precautions that are necessary
     • 1. Isolation Precautions Private room, wearing a surgical mask within 3 feet of a child, appropriate hand hygiene. Use of designated equipment. Continue for 24hour after the first antibiotic has been administered.
       • Droplet Precaution

4. MEDICATIONS

   • Name 2 drugs that would be administered.
     • 1. Antibiotics- Administer for bacterial infections via IV route.
       • 2. Corticosteroids- Dexamethasome- Administer to prevent inflammation and neurologic complications.
         • 3. Anticonvulsants - Phenytoin - Prophylaxis for seizures.
           • 4. Analgesics - Non-opiods should be used to avoid effect of level of Consciousness related to medication therapy.

5. NURSING CARE

   • List 3 Nursing Interventions
     • 1. Presence of petechia or purpuric-type rash requires immediate attention.
       • 2. Isolate the client as soon as meningitis is suspected.
         • 3. Continue frequent vital signs, urine output, fluid status, pain level, neuro status, and head circumference (for infants).
           • 4. Initiate IV fluids
             • 5. Maintain NPO status, then clear liquids, and then a diet the client can tolerate.
               • 6. Decrease environment stimuli
                 • 7. Provide comfort
                   • 8. Maintain safety (keep bed in low position, take seizure precautions
                     • 9. Keep family informed