What should a nurse due when child has nuchal rigidity and fever?

Nuchal rigidity, also known as stiff neck, is a condition in which the muscles of the neck become tight and the neck becomes difficult to move. Nuchal rigidity can be a sign of several different medical conditions, including meningitis, a serious infection of the brain and spinal cord. Fever is also a common symptom of meningitis.

If a child has nuchal rigidity and fever, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. The nurse should take the child's vital signs, including temperature, heart rate, and respiratory rate. The nurse should also assess the child's level of consciousness, pupils, and skin color.

The nurse should also obtain a history of the child's symptoms, including when the symptoms started, how severe they are, and any other associated symptoms. The nurse should also ask about the child's medical history, including any previous history of meningitis or other medical conditions.

Based on the child's symptoms and history, the nurse may suspect that the child has meningitis. Meningitis can be a life-threatening condition, so it is important to start treatment as soon as possible. The nurse should administer antibiotics and other medications as ordered by the doctor. The nurse should also monitor the child's vital signs and level of consciousness closely.

If the child's condition does not improve with treatment, the nurse may need to transfer the child to a higher level of care, such as a pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). The nurse should also provide support to the child's family and answer any questions they may have.