MENINGITIS

Dian Hudiyawati, M.Kep

 Meningitis

 Meningitis is inflammation of the arachnoid and

pia mater of the brain and spinal cord..
 The inflammation may be caused by infection
with viruses, bacteria, or other microorganisms,
and less commonly by certain drugs.
 Meningitis can be life-threatening because of
the inflammation's proximity to the brain and
spinal cord; therefore the condition is classified
as a medical emergency.
 Transmission
Meningeal infections generally originate in one
of two ways:
• through the bloodstream as a consequence of
other infections
• direct spread, such as might occur after a
traumatic injury to the facial bones or
secondary to invasive procedures.
 Predisposing Factors

• Skull fractures
• Brain or spinal surgery
• Sinus or upper respiratory infections
• Use of nasal sprays
• Individuals with a compromised immune
system
 Signs and Symptoms
 The most common symptoms of meningitis
are headache and neck stiffness associated
with fever, confusion or altered consciousness,
vomiting, and an inability to tolerate light
(photophobia) or loud noises (phonophobia).
 Personality and behaviour changes
 Signs of meningeal irritation such as nuchial
rigidity and positive Kernig’s sign and Brudzinski’s
sign
 rash can be a striking feature of N. meningitidis
infection
 Diagnosis

• lumbar puncture may be used to diagnose or

exclude meningitis.
• This involves inserting a needle into the spinal
canal to extract a sample ofcerebrospinal
fluid (CSF), the fluid that envelops the brain and
spinal cord.
• The CSF is then examined in a medical
laboratory.
 Treatment

• The usual treatment for meningitis is the

prompt application of antibiotics and
sometimes antiviral drugs.
• In some situations, corticosteroid drugs can
also be used to prevent complications from
overactive inflammation.
 Complications and Prevention
• Meningitis can lead to serious long-term
consequences such
as deafness, epilepsy, hydrocephalus and
cognitive deficits, especially if not treated quickly.
• Some forms of meningitis (such as those
associated with meningococci, Haemophilus
influenzaetype B, pneumococci or mumps
virus infections) may be prevented
by immunization
 Nursing Management
nursing interventions are collaborative with the
physician, respiratory therapist, and other
members of the health care team.
• Neurologic status and vital signs are continually
assessed
• Pulse oximetry and arterial blood gas values are used
to quickly identify the need for respiratory support if
increasing ICP compromises the brain stem
• Protecting the patient from injury secondary to
seizure activity or altered LOC
• Preventing complications associated with immobility,
such as pressure ulcers and pneumonia