meningitis

• inflammation of meninges
• newborns and infants at greatest risk because they do not have a strong immune system
• higher morbidity and mortality associated with bacterial meningitis
• common bacterial causes: influenza, meningitides, streptococcus pneumonia, group b streptococcus
• s/s: general malaise, headache, photophobia, poor feeding, n/v, irritability, neck pain, nuchal rigidity, petechiae/purpura, increased BP, decreased pulse, decrease respiratory, seizure
• nursing interventions: low stimuli environment(calm, dark, minimal noise), monitor neurological status and vital signs
• nursing interventions: assess physical changes, monitor feeding tolerance(Iv nutrition may be needed), administer analgesics for pain, IV antibiotics, repeat CT scan if symptoms worsen