Bacterial Meningitis

Empirical Abx within 1 h

First 30 seconds

  1. 1ABCDE, blood cultures
  2. 2IV ceftriaxone 2 g + dexamethasone 10 mg IV BEFORE first dose antibiotic (or with)
  3. 3Add amoxicillin 2 g q4h if >50 y or immunocompromised (Listeria)
A

Airway

  • Patent? Talking? Stridor?
  • Suction, jaw-thrust, adjuncts, definitive airway if needed
B

Breathing

  • RR, SpO₂, auscultate, percuss
  • O₂ to target sats, NIV / intubate as required
C

Circulation

  • HR, BP, cap refill, JVP
  • 2× large-bore IV, bloods, monitor, ECG
D

Disability

  • AVPU/GCS, pupils, glucose, temp
E

Exposure

  • Full exposure, skin, rash, bleeding, lines, infection source
View flowchart algorithm

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