A patient with suspected meningitis becomes increasingly drowsy and vomits without warning. Which nursing action has the highest priority?
Correct answer: B. Turn the patient to the side and assess the airway
- A. Keep the patient flat and offer oral fluids
- B. Turn the patient to the side and assess the airway
- C. Encourage ambulation to improve circulation
- D. Dim the lights and postpone neurological checks
Explanation
Drowsiness and vomiting increase the risk of airway obstruction and aspiration, so airway assessment and side-lying positioning take priority. Oral fluids and ambulation are unsafe, and neurological observations should not be postponed.
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About Neurological Nursing
Covers nursing assessment and management of stroke, epilepsy, meningitis, raised intracranial pressure, head injury, spinal cord disorders, Parkinson disease and multiple sclerosis. Key areas include level of consciousness, pupil responses, motor and sensory findings, seizure precautions and distinguishing upper motor neuron from lower motor neuron signs.
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