Management of CareQuestion 1255 of 2368

A child is suspected of having meningococcal meningitis. The provider orders an antibiotic. When should the nurse expect it to be given?

  1. After blood cultures are reported as positive
  2. After a lumbar puncture result is available
  3. Immediately, without waiting for lab confirmation
  4. After a hearing screen is completed
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Correct answer: Immediately, without waiting for lab confirmation

Meningococcal meningitis is an emergency, so antibiotics are given right away when it is suspected.

Source: Nursing Health Promotion (Open RN, Chippewa Valley Technical College, 2025), Other Childhood Disorders: Implementation (Take Action). Licensed under CC BY 4.0.

Practice the topic "Management of Care"

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026