Final answer:
The step not recommended in the workup of suspected meningitis is delaying antibiotic treatment until brain CT scan results are obtained, as it is crucial to start antibiotics promptly due to the serious nature of the disease.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the workup of patients with suspected meningitis, the recommended steps include the prompt performance of a lumbar puncture to collect cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for testing, assessing a complete blood count (CBC) count, and, if indicated by the history and symptoms, specific tests such as serologic syphilis testing. The step that is not recommended is the delay of antibiotic treatment until brain CT scan results are obtained. The rationale for immediate antibiotic treatment is the high morbidity and mortality associated with bacterial meningitis; therefore, in cases of suspected bacterial meningitis, starting empirical antibiotic therapy should not be delayed while awaiting imaging results.