Meningitis in Neonates

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  • Usually caused by gram (-) organisms and requires treatment for 21 days.
  • Careful observation is essential while awaiting culture and sensitivity results.

  • or if they are not available:

  • Give Benzylpenicillin 100,000 units/kg q6h, initially slow IV or IM plus Gentamycin 2.5 mg/kg IM or IV q8h or Gentamycin 5mg/kg IM q24h if 1 week old neonate. Or Gentamycin 7.5 mg/kg q24h if over a week-old neonate.

    Alternatively

  • Give Ampicillin 50 mg/kg 6 hourly initially IV then later IM as an alternative to Benzylpenicillin

  • If still febrile after 48 hours:

  • Add Cefotaxime