A nurse is admitting a child who has suspected epiglottitis. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Administer 0.9% sodium chloride IV solution.
Place the child on droplet precautions.
Initiate IV antibiotics.
Assist with obtaining an x-ray of the child's neck.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Administering IV fluids may be necessary but is not the first priority in managing a suspected airway emergency.
B. Placing the child on droplet precautions is the first action to take to prevent the spread of infection and protect healthcare workers, given the suspected diagnosis of epiglottitis.
C. Initiating IV antibiotics is essential but should follow ensuring that appropriate precautions and assessments are in place.
D. While obtaining an x-ray can confirm the diagnosis, the child's safety and airway management must be prioritized first to avoid potential respiratory distress.
Free Nursing Test Bank
- Free Pharmacology Quiz 1
- Free Medical-Surgical Quiz 2
- Free Fundamentals Quiz 3
- Free Maternal-Newborn Quiz 4
- Free Anatomy and Physiology Quiz 5
- Free Obstetrics and Pediatrics Quiz 6
- Free Fluid and Electrolytes Quiz 7
- Free Community Health Quiz 8
- Free Promoting Health across the Lifespan Quiz 9
- Free Multidimensional Care Quiz 10
View Related questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Preparing for immediate surgery is necessary, but the priority intervention is to ensure adequate oxygenation and blood flow through the ductus arteriosus before surgery can be performed.
B. Initiating feeding through a nasogastric tube is not a priority for an infant with this condition, as their immediate need is to address the circulatory issue rather than feeding.
C. Administering oxygen via nasal cannula may provide some relief but is not sufficient as a standalone intervention for transposition of the great vessels, which requires maintaining ductal patency to allow mixing of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood.
D. Administering prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) is the priority intervention, as it helps maintain patency of the ductus arteriosus, allowing for temporary stabilization of the infant’s condition until surgical intervention can be performed.
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D","E"]
Explanation
A. The parent applying prescribed medication as instructed indicates proper understanding of post-operative care and adherence to treatment.
B. Allowing the child to lift their older sibling above the ground is inappropriate as it can lead to increased pressure on the ear, risking complications.
C. Enforcing nose blowing only when necessary is a correct action since excessive force can displace the tympanoplasty tube or introduce bacteria into the ear.
D. Planning to have the child use ear plugs in the shower is an effective precaution to protect the ears from water exposure, which is essential post-surgery.
E. Reporting purulent drainage immediately to the surgeon shows awareness of potential complications and the need for prompt medical attention.