A nurse is preparing a child who has suspected bacterial meningitis for a lumbar puncture.Which of the following cerebrospinal fluid findings supports the diagnosis?

Choice A rationaleElevated total protein in cerebrospinal fluid suggests increased inflammation and permeability of the blood-brain barrier due to bacterial meningitis. Proteins, primarily immunoglobulins, leak into CSF during infection. Normal CSF protein levels range from 15-45 mg/dL, and significant elevation indicates pathological changes consistent with bacterial involvement.Choice B rationaleDecreased white blood cells contradict bacterial meningitis, as infection prompts immune response elevation. Elevated WBCs, typically neutrophils, indicate the body’s defense against bacterial pathogens. Normal CSF WBC range is 0-5 cells/µL, and deviations confirm meningitis diagnosis.Choice C rationaleDecreased pressure in CSF indicates other neurological conditions rather than bacterial meningitis. Bacterial infections often increase intracranial pressure due to inflammation and fluid buildup, aligning with typical diagnostic findings.Choice D rationaleElevated glucose in CSF contradicts bacterial meningitis diagnosis. Bacteria consume glucose, leading to low CSF glucose levels relative to blood glucose. Normal CSF glucose levels range from 40-70 mg/dL, and reduction suggests bacterial growth and metabolic activity. .