A nurse is caring for a pre-school age child who has epiglottitis and presents with a high fever, drooling, and a muffled voice. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Use a tongue depressor to observe the epiglottis.
Initiate airborne precautions.
Monitor oxygen saturation.
Obtain a throat culture.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Using a tongue depressor can provoke spasm of the epiglottis and lead to airway obstruction; therefore, this action is contraindicated in a child with epiglottitis.
B. Airborne precautions are not necessary for epiglottitis; droplet precautions are more appropriate due to the risk of transmission.
C. Monitoring oxygen saturation is critical in this situation to assess the child's respiratory status and ensure adequate oxygenation, making it the most appropriate action.
D. Obtaining a throat culture may not be safe or practical in this scenario, as it can provoke further distress and complications; immediate assessment and stabilization are prioritized.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
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.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Bradycardia is not typically expected in toddlers with heart failure; instead, tachycardia (increased heart rate) is more common as the body compensates for decreased cardiac output.
B. Weight loss is generally not a typical finding in toddlers with heart failure; rather, they often experience weight gain due to fluid retention.
C. Orthopnea, or difficulty breathing when lying flat, is a common symptom of heart failure and would be expected in a toddler due to fluid overload affecting respiratory function.
D. Increased urine output is usually not expected in heart failure; rather, fluid retention often leads to decreased urine output as the kidneys respond to the body's fluid balance needs.