Introduction

Suspected bacterial meningitis is a medical emergency, and immediate diagnostic steps must be taken to establish the specific cause so that appropriate antimicrobial therapy can be initiated. The mortality rate of untreated bacterial meningitis approaches 100 percent and, even with optimal therapy, morbidity and mortality may occur. Neurologic sequelae are common among survivors.

Self-Care at Home

Meningitis can be a rapidly progressing, life-threatening disease, so immediate medical care is important if meningitis is suspected in a child.

• While transporting a child to a hospital’s emergency department, supportive care may include the following:
  • Give the correct amount of acetaminophen for fever.
  • Attempt to keep the child comfortable and prevent the child from choking or inhaling any material vomited.
  • Directly observe the child to notice any deterioration in condition.
• Sometimes, children are sent home from the emergency room if the doctor is confident that the child has viral meningitis. Frequently, a child with viral meningitis can be treated successfully at home by taking acetaminophen  or other pain medications and by drinking plenty of fluids. If a child has viral meningitis, follow-up care is still important.
  • Have the child reevaluated within 1-2 days to be sure that he or she isimproving.
  • Watch for any worsening signs or symptoms and if necessary, return immediately to a medical facility.
• Avoidance of delay — Antibiotic therapy should be initiated immediately after lumbar Continue reading »