Introduction Show
Aim Definition of Terms Initial Assessment and Management Ongoing Assessment and Management Discharge Planning Special Considerations Companion Documents Evidence Table References IntroductionMeningitis is a life
threatening illness caused by infection and inflammation of the meninges. The infection can be caused by bacteria, a virus, fungus or other rare organisms such as parasites and amoeba. AimThe aim of this guideline is to outline the nursing care of an infant, child or young person with suspected or confirmed meningitis. This guideline has been staged, from initial assessment and management, which will occur most frequently in the emergency department, to ongoing assessments and management on the ward, as well as in the paediatric and neonatal intensive care
areas. Definition of Terms
Initial Assessment and ManagementFeatures on History
Features on Examination
AssessmentPlease refer to Nursing Assessment.
Management
Ongoing Assessment and ManagementOngoing Assessment
Ongoing Management
Discharge Planning
Special Considerations
Companion Documents
Evidence TableThe evidence table for this guideline can be found here: Nursing Management of Meningitis Evidence Table 2019 References
Please remember to read the disclaimer. The development of this nursing guideline was coordinated by Catherine Wood, CNS, Sugar Glider, and approved by the Nursing Clinical Effectiveness Committee. Updated November 2019. What is a priority action for the nurse to initiate of bacterial meningitis?CORRECT: Seizure precautions should be implemented for clients who have bacterial meningitis. The client is at risk for increased intracranial pressure and the development of seizures. The nurse should also decrease environmental stimuli by dimming the lights and minimizing noise.
What is a priority nursing consideration for a child with suspected bacterial meningitis?Nursing care plan goals for a child with meningitis include attain adequate cerebral tissue perfusion through reduction in ICP, maintain normal body temperature, protection against injury, enhance coping measures, accurate perception of environmental stimuli, restoring normal cognitive functions and prevention of ...
Which priority assessment confirms a diagnosis of meningitis?In general, whenever the diagnosis of meningitis is strongly considered, a lumbar puncture should be promptly performed. Examination of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is the cornerstone of the diagnosis. The diagnosis of bacterial meningitis is made by culture of the CSF sample.
How long will the nurse maintain isolation of a child with bacterial meningitis?If Meningococcal Meningitis is suspected patients should be isolated and droplet precautions continued for 24 hours after administration of appropriate antibiotics.
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