Final answer:
To check for Kernig's sign, lie the patient flat, flex their hip to 90 degrees and try to extend the knee. Pain could indicate meningitis. Kernig's sign is evaluated alongside symptoms like fever and stiffness, with lumbar puncture results confirming diagnosis.
Step-by-step explanation:
To elicit Kernig's sign, a clinical test used to help diagnose meningitis, the appropriate procedure involves having the patient lie flat on their back, then flexing their hip to a 90-degree angle while keeping the knee extended. If the patient experiences resistance or pain in the lower back, hamstrings, or resistance to straightening at the knee, this could indicate the presence of Kernig's sign, which is suggestive of meningitis. It's important to note that while Kernig's sign can be indicative of meningitis, it is not exclusive to the condition and should be assessed alongside other symptoms and diagnostic tests, such as a lumbar puncture to analyze cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).
Common symptoms of meningitis include fever, headache, and neck stiffness. Other signs may present as confusion, vomiting, and sensitivity to light or loud noises. Upon suspicion of meningitis, empirical treatment with antibiotics such as ceftriaxone may be initiated before laboratory test results are available. This is vital because bacterial meningitis can progress rapidly, necessitating prompt treatment to minimize the risk of serious outcomes.
The fatality rate for bacterial meningitis can be significant, ranging from 5-40% in children and 20-50% in adults, underscoring the urgency of early detection and treatment. While bacterial meningitis demands aggressive antibiotic therapy, viruses do not respond to antibiotics, highlighting the importance of accurate diagnosis for appropriate treatment strategies.