Meningitis – Patient Education

What It Is

Meningitis is swelling (inflammation) of the thin layers of tissue that cover the brain and spinal cord, called the meninges. These layers protect the brain and help it work properly. When they become swollen, it can cause serious illness. Meningitis can be life-threatening if not treated quickly.

Causes and Risk Factors

Meningitis can be caused by:

• Bacteria (serious, needs urgent antibiotics)
  
  

• Viruses (often less severe but still needs care)
  
  

• Fungi (more common in people with weak immune systems)
  
  

• Parasites (rare, often from contaminated food or water)
  
  

• Non-infectious causes (certain medicines, head injury, cancer, autoimmune diseases)
  
  

Risk factors include:

• Being around someone who has meningitis
  
  

• Weakened immune system
  
  

• Not being vaccinated for certain illnesses (like measles, mumps, meningococcal disease)
  
  

• Living in close quarters (college dorms, military barracks)
  
  

• Recent head injury or brain surgery
  
  

• Exposure to mosquito-borne viruses
  
  

Signs and Symptoms (Including Early Warning Signs)

Early warning signs:

• Fever
  
  

• Headache
  
  

• Feeling very tired or weak
  
  

Later symptoms:

• Stiff neck
  
  

• Sensitivity to bright light
  
  

• Nausea or vomiting
  
  

• Confusion or difficulty waking up
  
  

• Seizures
  
  

In babies:

• Irritability or constant crying
  
  

• Trouble feeding
  
  

• Bulging soft spot on head
  
  

Complications If Untreated or Patient Noncompliance

• Brain damage
  
  

• Hearing loss
  
  

• Seizures
  
  

• Learning problems
  
  

• Death (especially with bacterial meningitis)
  
  

Treatment and Self-Care Measures

• Bacterial meningitis: Immediate antibiotics, sometimes steroids
  
  

• Viral meningitis: Rest, fluids, pain relievers, sometimes antivirals
  
  

• Fungal meningitis: Antifungal medications
  
  

• Parasitic meningitis: Special medicines depending on type
  
  

• Non-infectious meningitis: Treat underlying cause
  
  

Self-care:

• Take all medicines exactly as ordered
  
  

• Get plenty of rest
  
  

• Drink fluids to prevent dehydration
  
  

• Stay away from bright lights if sensitive
  
  

• Keep your environment quiet and calm
  
  

Common Types of Medications

• Antibiotics – treat bacterial infections
  
  

• Antiviral drugs – treat certain viral causes (e.g., herpes virus)
  
  

• Antifungal drugs – treat fungal causes
  
  

• Steroids – reduce swelling and protect the brain
  
  

• Pain relievers – reduce headache and fever
  
  

Purpose and Side Effects

• Antibiotics – Kill bacteria; may cause stomach upset, diarrhea, allergic reaction
  
  

• Antivirals – Slow virus growth; may cause nausea, headache, tiredness
  
  

• Antifungals – Kill fungi; may cause liver changes, nausea, rash
  
  

• Steroids – Reduce swelling; may cause mood changes, high blood sugar, weight gain
  
  

• Pain relievers – Lower pain and fever; may cause stomach upset (ibuprofen) or liver problems if overused (acetaminophen)
  
  

Dietary Needs

• Drink plenty of water or electrolyte drinks
  
  

• Eat soft, easy-to-digest foods if nauseated
  
  

• Choose fruits, vegetables, and lean protein for healing
  
  

• Avoid alcohol and caffeine until cleared by your provider
  
  

Lifestyle Changes

• Rest until fully recovered
  
  

• Avoid close contact with others until your provider says it is safe
  
  

• Wash hands often
  
  

• Avoid sharing eating utensils, drinks, or lip products
  
  

• Keep vaccinations up to date
  
  

Safety Considerations

• Watch for sudden changes in symptoms
  
  

• Follow medication instructions exactly
  
  

• Keep emergency numbers handy
  
  

• Protect yourself from mosquito bites (use repellent, wear long sleeves)
  
  

Prevention and Maintenance Tips

• Practice good hand hygiene
  
  

• Get all recommended vaccines (meningococcal, Hib, pneumococcal, MMR)
  
  

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick
  
  

• Use insect repellent in mosquito season
  
  

• Stay healthy with good nutrition, rest, and stress control
  
  

When to Call for Help

Call your Home Health Agency or Doctor if you have:

• Fever over 101°F that does not go down
  
  

• Worsening headache or stiff neck
  
  

• New nausea, vomiting, or light sensitivity
  
  

• Trouble taking medicines
  
  

Go to the Emergency Room or Call 911 if you have:

• Confusion or difficulty waking up
  
  

• Seizures
  
  

• Trouble breathing
  
  

• Rash that spreads quickly
  
  

• Severe weakness or sudden change in alertness
  
  

© 2025 Judith Regan / K.N.O.W. – Knowledge for Nurturing Optimal Well-Being. All rights reserved. | Educational use only | Not a substitute for medical advice | In emergencies call 911

PATIENT EDUCATION/ASSESSMENT

LEASE CHOOSE TRUE OR FALSE THEN CORRECT all fALSE STATEMENTS

(Patient circles “True” or “False”)

1. True / False – Meningitis is swelling of the protective layers around the brain and spinal cord.
   
   

2. True / False – Only bacteria can cause meningitis.
   
   

3. True / False – Fever, headache, and tiredness can be early warning signs of meningitis.
   
   

4. True / False – A stiff neck is a common symptom of meningitis.
   
   

5. True / False – Babies with meningitis may cry constantly and refuse to feed.
   
   

6. True / False – All types of meningitis are treated the same way.
   
   

7. True / False – Some forms of meningitis can spread from person to person.
   
   

8. True / False – Vaccines can help prevent some types of meningitis.
   
   

9. True / False – Light sensitivity can be a symptom of meningitis.
   
   

10. True / False – Meningitis can cause seizures or confusion.
    
    

11. True / False – Washing your hands can help prevent the spread of meningitis.
    
    

12. True / False – If symptoms get worse, it is safe to wait a few days before seeking care.
    
    

13. True / False – Rest and fluids are important for recovery from meningitis.
    
    

14. True / False – Bacterial meningitis is a medical emergency.
    
    

15. True / False – Viral meningitis often improves without antibiotics.
    
    

16. True / False – Insect repellent can prevent some cases of meningitis spread by mosquitoes.
    
    

17. True / False – Meningitis can cause long-term problems if not treated quickly.
    
    

18. True / False – You should complete all prescribed medicines even if you feel better.
    
    

19. True / False – You should avoid sharing drinks, utensils, or lip products.
    
    

20. True / False – Confusion, seizures, or trouble breathing are reasons to go to the emergency room right away.
    
    

ASSESSMENT of WELL-BEING INDIVIDUALIZED PATIENT HOMEWORK

Individualized Patient Learning Questions

(To be completed for each patient to address their personal health and safety needs)

1. Which symptoms would make you call your doctor or home health nurse right away?
   
   

2. What vaccinations have you received that help prevent meningitis? Which do you still need?
   
   

3. How will you make sure you drink enough fluids each day?
   
   

4. What changes in your home or routine can reduce your risk of catching or spreading meningitis?
   
   

5. What is your plan for remembering to take your medications on time?
   
   

6. How will you protect yourself from mosquito bites if they are a concern in your area?
   
   

7. If you have light sensitivity, how will you manage it at home?
   
   

8. How will you make sure you rest and recover fully before returning to normal activities?
   
   

9. Who can help you at home if your symptoms suddenly get worse?
   
   

10. What steps will you take to avoid exposure to people who may be sick?
    
    

© 2025 Judith Regan / K.N.O.W. – Knowledge for Nurturing Optimal Well-Being. All rights reserved. | Educational use only | Not a substitute for medical advice | In emergencies call 911

Answer Key & Explanations

1. True – Meningitis is an infection and swelling of the protective layers (meninges) around the brain and spinal cord.
Explanation: These layers are meant to protect your brain and spinal cord, but swelling can cause serious damage.

2. True – Meningitis can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites.
Explanation: The cause affects how severe the illness is and what treatment is needed.

3. True – Bacterial meningitis is usually more dangerous than viral meningitis.
Explanation: Bacterial forms can be deadly and require urgent antibiotics.

4. False – Only elderly people can get meningitis.
Explanation: People of any age can get it, though babies, teens, and older adults are at higher risk.

5. True – Early symptoms can include headache, fever, and stiff neck.
Explanation: These are the classic “triad” of meningitis symptoms.

6. True – Light sensitivity, confusion, and seizures can also be signs of meningitis.
Explanation: These happen because the brain is affected by swelling.

7. False – If symptoms improve after rest, you can wait to see a doctor.
Explanation: Meningitis can worsen quickly; urgent medical care is needed.

8. True – Untreated meningitis can cause hearing loss, brain damage, or death.
Explanation: These are severe complications from swelling and infection.

9. True – Close contact with someone who has bacterial meningitis may increase your risk.
Explanation: Certain bacteria spread through saliva or respiratory droplets.

10. False – You can get meningitis from casual contact like passing someone in the store.
Explanation: It usually requires closer, longer contact or shared personal items.

11. True – Vaccines can help prevent some types of bacterial meningitis.
Explanation: The meningococcal, Hib, and pneumococcal vaccines protect against specific bacteria.

12. True – Antibiotics treat bacterial meningitis, while antiviral drugs may be used for some viral types.
Explanation: The type of germ determines the correct medicine.

13. True – Common side effects of antibiotics may include nausea, diarrhea, or rash.
Explanation: Always report side effects to your doctor.

14. True – Rest, fluids, and fever control are important parts of self-care.
Explanation: These help your body recover and prevent dehydration.

15. False – Once you start antibiotics, you can stop taking them when you feel better.
Explanation: Stopping early can cause relapse or resistance; always finish the full course.

16. True – Avoiding tobacco smoke and managing chronic illnesses can lower your risk of complications.
Explanation: Smoking and poor immune health make infections worse.

17. True – If you have worsening headache, fever, confusion, or seizures, go to the ER immediately.
Explanation: These are signs of serious progression needing emergency care.

18. True – Call your doctor or home health nurse if you have mild fever, stiff neck, or any new symptom.
Explanation: Early intervention can prevent hospitalization.

19. False – People with meningitis should share drinks to avoid dehydration.
Explanation: Sharing cups can spread germs; use your own water bottle.

20. True – Wearing a mask and washing hands often can reduce the spread of some meningitis-causing germs.