Question

SCENARIO: a lady is admitted to a clinical unit with the diagnosis of bacterial meningitis. she is becoming increasingly irritated and disoriented. she has received paracetamol to reduce fever, IV dexamethasone and IV cefotaxime ( claforan ) you identify pain management as priority goal for the lady . select appropriate interventions that would be helpful to minimize lady's discomfort. select 5 1) hourly position changes 2) darkened room 3) cool cloth to forehead 4) quite environment 5) head of bed elevated 6) intravenous morphine drip 7) frequent stimulation to maintain orientation 8) curled up in bed or position of comfort

Answer 1

Bacterial meningitis is the inflammation of meninges due to bacteria.

In this condition patient's intra cranial pressure (ICP)increases due to inflammation of meninges , stiffened neck , head ache, high fever , sensitivity to light etc are the clinical manifestations.

To reduce irritation and discomfort by pain , room should be kept stimulant free( light,sound), promote comfort by positioning often, prevent visitors, elevate head end 30 degree to reduce ICP and prevent hydrocephalus.

Answer: (2 ,4, 5)