Question

A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a lumbar puncture (LP) for a client who has manifestations of bacterial meningitis. The nurse should recognize which of the following findings is consistent with this diagnosis?

a) Elevated red blood cell count
b) Increased glucose level
c) Clear cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)
d) Elevated white blood cell count

Answer 1

An elevated white blood cell count in CSF, along with reduced glucose levels and elevated protein, are consistent with bacterial meningitis following a lumbar puncture.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should recognize an elevated white blood cell count as a finding consistent with a diagnosis of bacterial meningitis. When reviewing the laboratory results of a lumbar puncture (LP), cloudy cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) with increased white blood cells, reduced glucose levels, and elevated protein are indicative of bacterial meningitis.

Specifically, abnormal levels of polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs) (> 10 PMNs/mm³), glucose (< 45 mg/dL), and protein (> 45 mg/dL) in the CSF support the diagnosis. Other typical findings in bacterial meningitis involve cloudy CSF, presence of bacteria upon Gram stain, and the growth of bacteria in cultures from the CSF.