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Meningitis: causes, symptoms and signs and nursing management
1Department of Adult Nursing and Health, Faculty of Health and Human Sciences, University of Hertfordshire.
Abstract:
This article discusses the infectious disease meningitis--a notifiable disease since 1912 (Payling, 1994). The major concern is bacterial meningitis and in particular the meningococcal cause. Viral meningitis is also considered. Some 50% of cases of meningitis in the UK are of the viral kind, where the patient usually makes a full recovery and in some instances may not be aware of having contracted the disease (Payling, 1994). Cases of bacterial meningitis are few and if treated effectively and with urgency can result in full recovery; however, any delay may result in fatal sequelae. Bacterial meningitis occurs mainly as a result of meningococcal, pneumococcal or Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib) infection. The latter has largely been eradicated in England and Wales as a result of effective immunization programmes. The nurse must develop an awareness of the disease, and diagnose it at an early stage. He/she should know the procedures for referring the patient to prevent an escalation of the infection and to reduce the severity of its effects.
Insights
Meningitis, a notifiable infectious disease, includes viral and bacterial forms. Bacterial meningitis requires urgent diagnosis and treatment to prevent severe outcomes, while viral meningitis often results in full recovery.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Meningitis is a notifiable infectious disease with both viral and bacterial causes.
- Bacterial meningitis, particularly meningococcal, poses significant health risks, while viral meningitis is more common and typically less severe.
- Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib) meningitis has been largely controlled in England and Wales due to immunization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the infectious disease meningitis, focusing on its causes, particularly bacterial meningitis.
- To highlight the importance of early diagnosis and prompt referral for bacterial meningitis to prevent severe sequelae.
- To inform healthcare professionals, especially nurses, about the need for awareness and timely intervention in managing meningitis cases.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and discussion of existing knowledge on meningitis.
- Analysis of the epidemiology and causative agents of meningitis.
- Emphasis on clinical recognition and management protocols for healthcare providers.
Main Results:
- Viral meningitis accounts for approximately 50% of cases in the UK, usually leading to complete recovery.
- Bacterial meningitis, though less common, can have fatal consequences if treatment is delayed.
- Effective immunization programs have significantly reduced cases of Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib) meningitis.
Conclusions:
- Early and accurate diagnosis of meningitis is crucial for effective patient management.
- Healthcare professionals must be aware of meningitis symptoms and referral procedures to minimize infection severity and prevent complications.
- Prompt medical intervention is key to improving outcomes for bacterial meningitis patients.