Section 10: Meningitis and Encephalitis

NUR 433: Adult Health II; MCUSON; Mrs. Cooper

___ infections raise ICP through inflammation, edema and extra CSF, so everything in the IICP section applies

CNS

_____ inflames the meninges, the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord

meningitis

_____ inflames the brain tissue itself

encephalitis

_____ often follows a respiratory infection that spreads to the CNS. Untreated, it can be fatal

meningitis

***Entry routes for meningitis includes upper respiratory tract or bloodstream; direct spread from penetrating head wounds or basilar skull fractures (sinus fractures)

***meningitis pathophysiology: inflammation → ↑ CSF production and swelling → ↑ ICP.

bacterial vs viral meningitis

clinical manifestations

list some complications of meningitis

• increased ICP

• decreased LOC

• cranial nerve deficits (hearing loss is common)

• seizures

• septic shock

• DIC

diagnostics

priority: never do a _____ _____ before CT when increased ICP is suspected. it can cause herniation

lumbar puncture

interprofessional care

nursing interventions

encephalitis is caused by viruses, often spread by mosquitoes and ticks (epidemic forms). _____ _____ virus and herpes simplex virus (HSV) are common causes.

West Nile

encephalitis manifestations include fever, headache, N/V early; then altered mental status progressing to _____; seizures, hemiparesis, tremors, cranial nerve palsies, dysphasia; personality changes and memory loss

coma

encephalitis diagnostics include CT, MRI or PET to detect inflammation or _____; CSF PCR for HSV. Early detection is critical for survival

necrosis

encephalitis treatment includes _____ for HSV encephalitis, started early. Otherwise supportive: manage fever, ICP, airway and seizures

acyclovir

encephalitis nursing care includes close neuro and vital sign monitoring, airway and oxygenation, _____ precautions, quiet environment, gradual return to activity.

seizure