02-27-2008, 05:36 PM
A 24-year old woman is brought to the emergency department because of fever, photophobia, and a stiff neck. On physical examination, the patient is irritable. Temperature is 40 °C (104 °F). There is nuchal rigidity, and a purpuric rash is seen on dependent areas of the body. While in the emergency department, the patient develops respiratory distress and requires intubation. She is subsequently admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU).
During transfer, the patient is isolated with droplet precautions, and all health care workers wear masks and use the appropriate barriers. Lumbar puncture is done in the ICU, and cerebrospinal fluid examination shows gram-negative diplococci, consistent with meningitis.
Which of the following health care workers requires antibiotic prophylaxis?
A All staff who were present in the emergency department and ICU when the patient was in these areas
B All staff who examined the patient in the emergency department and ICU
C The resident who intubated the patient in the emergency department
D Prophylaxis is not required for any staff
During transfer, the patient is isolated with droplet precautions, and all health care workers wear masks and use the appropriate barriers. Lumbar puncture is done in the ICU, and cerebrospinal fluid examination shows gram-negative diplococci, consistent with meningitis.
Which of the following health care workers requires antibiotic prophylaxis?
A All staff who were present in the emergency department and ICU when the patient was in these areas
B All staff who examined the patient in the emergency department and ICU
C The resident who intubated the patient in the emergency department
D Prophylaxis is not required for any staff