A nurse is caring for a 3-month-old infant who has bacterial meningitis. Which clinical findings support this diagnosis? Select all that apply.

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Bacterial meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges in the brain and spinal cord that is caused by specific types of bacteria, including group B streptococcal, meningococcal, or pneumococcal pathogens. Clinical manifestations of bacterial meningitis in infants age <2 include: Fever or possible hypothermia Irritability, frequent seizures High-pitched cry Poor feeding and vomiting Nuchal rigidity Bulging fontanelle possible but not always present One of the most common acute complications of bacterial meningitis in children is hydrocephalus. Long-term complications include hearing loss, learning disabilities, and brain damage. Due to the severity of potential complications, prompt identification and immediate treatment are vital for any client with suspected bacterial meningitis. (Option A) Infants with bacterial meningitis may have bulging fontanelles due to an increase in intracranial pressure. Depressed fontanelles indicate severe dehydration. (Option E) The Babinski reflex can be present up to 1-2 years and is a normal expected finding; it does not indicate meningitis. Educational objective: Bacterial meningitis is inflammation of the meninges in the brain and spinal cord caused by bacterial infection. Key characteristics of bacterial meningitis in infants under age 2 include frequent seizures, a high-pitched cry, poor feeding, nuchal rigidity, and possible bulging fontanelles.

A Nurse Is Caring for a 3-Month-Old Infant Who Has