A child is admitted to the pediatric unit with a diagnosis of suspected meningococcal meningitis. Which of the following nursing measures should the nurse do FIRST?
**Core Concept**
Meningococcal meningitis is a highly infectious disease caused by Neisseria meningitidis that requires prompt isolation to prevent transmission to others. The primary goal of initial nursing care is to prevent the spread of the infection.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The child should be placed in respiratory isolation immediately upon admission to prevent the spread of meningococcal meningitis to healthcare workers and other patients. This is because meningococcal meningitis is highly contagious and can be spread through respiratory droplets, such as those produced by coughing or sneezing. Isolation helps to prevent the transmission of the bacteria to others, thereby reducing the risk of secondary cases.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Seizure precautions are not the first priority in managing a patient with suspected meningococcal meningitis. While seizures can occur in patients with meningitis, they are not the immediate concern in this scenario.
**Option B:** Assessing neurologic status is an essential part of managing a patient with suspected meningococcal meningitis, but it is not the first nursing measure to be taken. Neurologic assessment is important to monitor for signs of increased intracranial pressure or other complications, but it is secondary to isolation.
**Option D:** Assessing vital signs is a crucial aspect of patient care, but it is not the first priority in managing a patient with suspected meningococcal meningitis. Vital sign assessment is important to monitor for signs of shock or other complications, but it is secondary to isolation.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Meningococcal meningitis is a medical emergency that requires prompt recognition and isolation to prevent the spread of infection. Healthcare workers should always prioritize isolation and contact precautions when caring for patients with suspected meningococcal meningitis.
**✓ Correct Answer: C. Place in respiratory isolation**