Author Question: A lumbar puncture is performed on an infant suspected of having meningitis. Which finding does the ... (Read 146 times)

tth · **on:** Jun 28, 2018

A lumbar puncture is performed on an infant suspected of having meningitis. Which finding does the nurse expect in the cerebral spinal fluid if the infant has meningitis?

1. Elevated white blood cell count
2. Elevated red blood cell count
3. Normal glucose
4. Decreased white blood cell count

Question 2

A child is diagnosed with epilepsy and is prescribed daily phenytoin (Dilantin). Which topic is most appropriate for the nurse to include in the discharge teaching?

1. Increasing fluid intake
2. Performing good dental hygiene
3. Decreasing intake of vitamin D
4. Taking the medication with milk

TINA · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 28, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 1
Rationale: The lumbar puncture is done to obtain cerebral spinal fluid (CSF). Elevated white blood cell count is seen with bacterial meningitis. The red blood cell count is not elevated, and the glucose is decreased in meningitis.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 2
Rationale: Because phenytoin (Dilantin) can cause gingival hyperplasia, good dental hygiene should be encouraged. Fluid intake does not affect the drug's effectiveness, an adequate intake of vitamin D should be encouraged, and phenytoin (Dilantin) should not be taken with dairy products.