Write a double spaced, 4 paged (four full pages), typed, well constructed(complete sentences, proper grammar) report on 1 scenario (3 points).
Devote at least one paragraph to answering each of the 6 questions. (8 points each)
Include a reference section with at least 3 citations (in-text with quotations and references).Use resources such as microbiology text books, encyclopedias, HCC Library databases (e.g. Pro Quest Biology, Pro Quest Nursing) journals and online medical sites to research these questions.Indicate the source of information you found in APA format. If you need help with APA format, for help or select APA samples on the lower right hand corner for examples. You may also try other APA citation cite such as or other. Be sure to include the publication date. Citations within your paper also need to be APA format. (9 points)
All references must be cited, and direct quotes from the references must be indicated as such, using quotation marks. In the case of plagiarism, all students involved will receive a “0” on this assignment. Thereafter, plagiarism will be handled according to the College’s Academic Honesty Policy, with possible failure of the course and suspension from the College. III.
Pete was enjoying his junior year at Big State University until his room mate came down with a flulike upper respiratory infection. Sure enough, Pete started getting achey and feverish, and got pretty congested. He was not worried however, until he realized how stiff his neck was and that he had the worst headache he had ever felt. He noticed that he was developing a bright red rash, and some of the spots were turning blue-black. He went to the infirmary where they got very concerned and did a lumbar puncture to get a sample of Pete’s cerebrospinal fluid. Gram negative diplococci were observed in the fluid.
1. What is your diagnosis?
2. What microorganism causes this disease?
3. How is this disease transmitted?
4. How is the disease treated?
5. What symptoms might the patient develop if the disease is not treated?
6. What is Pete’s prognosis with treatment?
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
In this report, we will analyze a scenario involving a college student named Pete who presents with symptoms of a flulike upper respiratory infection, stiff neck, severe headache, and a rash that progresses to blue-black spots. We will accurately diagnose the condition, identify the causative microorganism, discuss the mode of transmission, explore treatment options, and consider the potential consequences of untreated disease. Additionally, we will assess Pete’s prognosis with proper medical intervention.
1. Diagnosis:
Based on the symptoms described, the diagnosis for Pete appears to be meningococcal meningitis. This is a bacterial infection characterized by inflammation of the meninges, the protective covering of the brain and spinal cord.
2. Causative microorganism:
The microorganism responsible for meningococcal meningitis is Neisseria meningitidis, a gram-negative diplococcus. This bacterium is encapsulated, allowing it to resist the body’s immune responses and cause invasive disease.
3. Mode of transmission:
Meningococcal meningitis is primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets. It spreads from person to person through close contact, such as coughing, sneezing, or sharing respiratory secretions. It is more likely to occur in crowded settings, such as dormitories or military barracks.
4. Treatment:
Prompt treatment with antibiotics is crucial in cases of meningococcal meningitis. The recommended antibiotics include intravenous ceftriaxone or intramuscular cefotaxime. Close contacts of the infected individual are also given prophylactic antibiotics to prevent further spread of the disease.
5. Symptoms without treatment:
If meningococcal meningitis is left untreated, the patient’s symptoms can worsen and lead to severe complications. These can include seizures, coma, brain damage, stroke, hearing loss, and even death. It is essential to recognize and treat the infection promptly to avoid these potential consequences.
6. Prognosis with treatment:
With appropriate and timely treatment, Pete’s prognosis for recovery from meningococcal meningitis is generally good. However, the overall prognosis can be influenced by factors such as the severity of the infection, the patient’s overall health status, and the timeliness of medical intervention. Early recognition and administration of appropriate antibiotics significantly increase the chances of a successful recovery.
References:
1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Meningococcal Disease – Chapter 4 – 2021 Yellow Book | Travelers’ Health | CDC. Retrieved October 6, 2021, from
2. Mayo Clinic. (2021). Meningococcal meningitis – Symptoms and causes. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved October 6, 2021, from
3. World Health Organization. (2020). Meningococcal meningitis. Retrieved October 6, 2021, from
