Safe and Effective Care Environment—Safety and Infection Control

The nurse is educating a client on meningitis. Which statements would the nurse include in the teaching?

Posted on by NCLEX.ME Nurse
Select all that apply.
  1. The CDC recommends an initial vaccine at age 6 or upon entering first grade.
  2. Immunocompromised clients and older adults are at increased risk of meningitis.
  3. Viral meningitis is the most common type; typically, no organisms are isolated from CSF cultures.
  4. Young preschool-age children have the highest rates of infection from life-threatening meningococcal infection.
  5. A booster vaccine is given at age 11 or 12 to children living in crowded spaces, such as group homes or summer camps.
Numbers 2 and 3 are correct.
Rationale: In addition to immunocompromised clients and older adults, clients with infection in the head or neck are also at increased risk. Tooth abscess, otitis media, and sinusitis have been linked to meningitis. CDC recommendations include an initial vaccine between ages 11 and 12 years with a booster at 16 years. Booster shots are recommended for adults living in cramped quarters (dorms, military barracks, group homes) or traveling to areas where outbreaks are common.
NCLEX.ME Nurse