The nurse is caring for a client admitted to the hospital with a tentative diagnosis of bacterial meningitis. Which diagnostic procedure should the nurse prepare the client for?

A. Computerized tomography (CT) scan: A CT scan may be performed to evaluate intracranial pathology such as tumors, hemorrhage, or increased intracranial pressure. In suspected meningitis, a CT scan can sometimes be used prior to lumbar puncture if there is concern for brain herniation risk. However, CT imaging alone cannot confirm meningitis. B. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): MRI provides detailed images of brain structures and may help detect complications of meningitis such as cerebral edema, abscesses, or inflammation. Despite its diagnostic usefulness in neurological disorders, it does not directly identify the infectious organism responsible for meningitis. C. Lumbar puncture: Lumbar puncture is the definitive diagnostic procedure for suspected bacterial meningitis because it allows collection and analysis of cerebrospinal fluid. CSF examination includes cell count, glucose, protein levels, Gram stain, and culture, which help identify the causative pathogen. Rapid identification enables timely initiation of targeted antimicrobial therapy, which is critical for reducing morbidity and mortality. D. Skull radiography: Skull radiographs provide limited information about the bones of the skull and are rarely used in evaluating central nervous system infections. They cannot assess cerebrospinal fluid or detect the inflammatory changes characteristic of meningitis. As a result, this imaging modality has minimal diagnostic value in this clinical scenario.