Your patient is a 20-year-old female college student who lives in a dormitory. She complains of weakness, fever, chills, nausea, a rash on her chest, and neck pain. Physical examination reveals warm, moist skin; pain with flexion of her neck; and a petechial rash on her chest. HR = 92, BP = 108/68, RR = 14, SaO₂ = 99%. Which of the following is most appropriate?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's symptoms and physical exam findings are suggestive of meningococcal meningitis, a highly contagious and potentially fatal infection. Placing a face mask on both the patient and provider will help prevent the spread of the infection. Transport should be done with Basic Life Support, as this patient will require further care and evaluation in a hospital setting. It is important to notify the hospital before arrival so that appropriate isolation procedures can be implemented. Administering oxygen or IV fluids may be appropriate depending on the patient's clinical condition, but the priority is to prevent the spread of infection.

Your Patient Is a 20-Year-Old Female College Student Who Lives