A nurse is planning care for a newly admitted adolescent client who has bacterial meningitis. Which of the following instructions is appropriate for the nurse to include in the plan of care?

A. Assist the client to a supine position: There is no requirement to maintain a supine position for bacterial meningitis. Clients are often more comfortable with the head of the bed elevated to reduce intracranial pressure and promote comfort. Supine positioning alone does not prevent disease transmission or improve outcomes. B. Recommend prophylactic acyclovir for the client's family: Acyclovir is an antiviral medication and is not effective against bacterial infections. Family members may require prophylactic antibiotics if exposed, but antiviral therapy is inappropriate for bacterial meningitis. C. Initiate droplet precautions for the client: Bacterial meningitis, particularly Neisseria meningitidis, can be transmitted via respiratory droplets. Implementing droplet precautions, including the use of masks and limiting close contact, protects healthcare staff and other clients from infection. This is a standard and critical infection control measure. D. Perform a Glasgow Coma Scale every 24 hr: Clients with bacterial meningitis are at risk for rapid neurological changes. Performing a Glasgow Coma Scale only once every 24 hours is insufficient. Neurological status should be monitored more frequently to promptly identify deterioration.