A nurse is caring for a school-age client with fever, somnolence, and a skin rash from suspected meningococcal meningitis. Which of the following interventions should the nurse plan to implement for this client? Select all that apply.

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Bacterial meningitis is an infection that causes inflammation of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord (ie, meninges). Inflammation and bacterial growth within the meninges lead to increased cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) volume and increased intracranial pressure (ICP). Without intervention, increased ICP may lead to nerve ischemia and permanent functional impairment (eg, hearing loss, visual impairment, paralysis), brain herniation, or death. The nurse should perform the following interventions: Maintain the head of the bed elevated at 30 degrees with the head and neck midline to reduce ICP by promoting drainage of cerebral venous blood and CSF (Option A) Implement seizure precautions due to potential neurologic irritability from increased ICP (Option B) Ensure a restful environment (eg, quiet, dimly lit, cool temperature) by reducing potentially irritable stimuli (Option D) (Option C) The nurse should initiate droplet precautions for clients with meningococcal meningitis that require the nurse (not the client) to wear a mask when caring for the client. The client wears a mask only if being transported outside the room. (Option E) A negative-pressure air flow room is appropriate for a client requiring airborne precautions (eg, active tuberculosis). Educational objective: Nursing care for a client with suspected meningococcal meningitis includes elevating the head of the bed at 30 degrees, implementing seizure precautions, and minimizing environmental stimuli. The nurse should implement droplet precautions that require the nurse (not the client) to wear a mask when caring for the client. The client wears the mask only if transported outside the room.

A Nurse Is Caring for a School-Age Client with Fever