Nursing Consideration in Rhinocerebral Mucormycosis: A Case Report

Introduction : Rhinocerebral mucormycosis is a rare but aggressive opportunistic fungal infection that predominantly affects immunocompromised individuals, particularly those with uncontrolled diabetes mellitus or undergoing immunosuppressive therapy. It demands urgent diagnosis and multidisciplinary management due to its rapid progression and high mortality rate. Case Presentation: This case report describes the clinical course of rhinocerebral mucormycosis in a patient with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), further complicated by post-herpetic neuralgia and lower motor neuron (LMN) facial palsy. The patient's deteriorating condition, development of secondary lesions suggesting disseminated infection, central nervous system involvement, and vascular compromise hindered the possibility of surgical debridement, ultimately resulting in respiratory failure and death. Nursing care played a pivotal role throughout, including the management of DKA using glucose-potassium-insulin (GKI) protocols, administration of Amphotericin B, detection of secondary lesions, pain management, monitoring vital parameters, and effective documentation and communication. Conclusion : The case highlights the crucial role of nurses in managing complex intensive care unit presentations, from early recognition of signs and symptoms to coordinating care, administering antifungal and supportive therapies, and providing psychosocial support to the patient and their family. Nursing competence in infection control, neurological assessment, and wound management is crucial for enhancing prognosis in high-risk cases.