The pattern and appropriateness of the use of antibiotics, fluids, and laboratory data in the emergency department were evaluated in 50 pediatric patients with meningitis due to Hemophilus influenzae, type b. Results indicate that the quality of care in emergency departments for patients with bacterial meningitis can be improved by (1) administering appropriate antibiotic doses; (2) minimizing the delay in administration of antibiotics; and (3) avoiding the excess fluid administration to decrease the potential for hyponatremia and cerebral edema.
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