Meningitis is the inflammation of the meninges (the covering membranes of the brain and the spinal cord). Meningitis begins when a causative agent enters the central nervous system through the blood, CSF, or through the mouth or nose. The invading organism will trigger an inflammatory response. The inflammation may cause increased intracranial pressure, disrupted blood supply, and possible thrombosis or rupture.
Common Types of Meningitis
Bacterial meningitis is the most common form of meningitis and accounts for 80% of the adult cases caused by meningococcus, influenza bacillus, or pneumococcus.
Viral meningitis usually occurs as a complication of a viral infection such as measles, chickenpox, or rubella.
Mode of Transmission
Transmission is through a droplet or direct contract. Transmission occurs in crowded areas like college dormitories and prisons.
Signs of meningeal irritation
The classic manifestations of meningitis are nuchal rigidity, deep tendon reflex hyperactivity, positive Brudzinki sign, positive Kernig sign, and opisthotonos (spasm of the muscles causing backward arching of the head, neck, and spine).
Kernig’s sign is performed while the patient is in a supine position with knees and legs flexed. If extended and the patient is not able to straighten the leg, the patient is positive for Kernig’s sign.
Brudzinki sign is elicited by placing the patient in a supine position. The examiner places one hand behind the patient’s head and places the other hand on the patient’s chest. The examiner will raise the patient’s head while the hand on the chest restrains the patient and prevents the patient from rising. Flexion of the patient’s lower extremities (hips and knees) is a positive sign of meningitis. Brudzinki is more sensitive than Kernig’s sign.
Other Nursing Diagnoses for Meningitis
- Hyperthermia
- Fluid Volume Deficit
- Risk for Infection
- Disturbed Though Processes
- Disturbed Sensory Perception
- Risk for Injury
- Acute Pain
