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. Lumbar puncture: This is the definitive diagnostic test for bacterial meningitis. It allows direct analysis of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for the presence of bacteria, elevated white blood cells, protein, and decreased glucose, confirming the diagnosis. B. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): MRI may detect complications such as abscesses or increased intracranial pressure but does not confirm meningitis. It is supportive rather than diagnostic in the initial evaluation. C. Skull radiography: A skull x-ray provides little useful information in suspected meningitis, as it cannot visualize the meninges or CSF. It is not an appropriate test for diagnosing this infection. D. Computerized tomography (CT) scan: CT scans may be performed prior to lumbar puncture if increased intracranial pressure is suspected, but they do not diagnose meningitis. The lumbar puncture remains the primary diagnostic tool.