A young child admitted to the pediatric unit has fever, irritability, and vomiting. The physician suspects bacterial meningitis. The nurse would expect the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to show:
A)Decreased protein count.
B)Clear, straw-colored fluid.
C)Positive for RBCs.
D)Decreased glucose level.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Bacterial meningitis affects the meninges and CSF. Typically, the CSF will show a decreased glucose level, increased protein count, and turbid or cloudy appearance due to an increase in white blood cells. RBCs are not typically present in CSF.

A Young Child Admitted to the Pediatric Unit Has Fever