A nurse in an emergency department is assessing a 2-year-old child who has a high fever, severe dyspnea, and is drooling. Which of the following actions is the nurse's priority?
Obtain blood culture specimens.
Administer an antipyretic.
Prepare for nasotracheal intubation.
Insert an IV catheter.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Obtaining blood culture specimens is important to identify the causative organism and guide antibiotic therapy, but it is not the priority action for a child who is in respiratory distress. The nurse should first secure the airway and stabilize the child's condition.
Choice B reason: Administering an antipyretic may help lower the fever and reduce discomfort, but it does not address the cause of the dyspnea and drooling, which may indicate epiglottitis. This is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate airway management.
Choice C reason: Preparing for nasotracheal intubation is the priority action for a child who has signs of epiglottitis, as it can prevent airway obstruction and respiratory failure. The nurse should have the equipment and personnel ready for intubation and avoid any stimulation or manipulation of the throat that can trigger laryngeal spasm.
Choice D reason: Inserting an IV catheter is necessary to administer fluids and medications, but it is not the first priority for a child who is in respiratory distress. The nurse should focus on the airway before the circulation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Cranberry juice is not a good choice for a child who has had a tonsillectomy, as it is acidic and may cause pain and irritation to the throat. The nurse should avoid offering citrus juices or carbonated beverages to the child.
Choice B reason: Vanilla milkshake is also not a good choice for a child who has had a tonsillectomy, as it is thick and may coat the throat and interfere with healing. The nurse should avoid offering dairy products or foods that are sticky or hard to swallow to the child.
Choice C reason: Cubed ice is not a good choice for a child who has had a tonsillectomy, as it may be too cold and cause vasoconstriction and bleeding. The nurse should avoid offering very cold or very hot fluids to the child.
Choice D reason: Water is the best choice for a child who has had a tonsillectomy, as it is clear, bland, and hydrating. The nurse should encourage the child to drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration and promote healing.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Oral rehydration solution (ORS) is the best fluid for a child with acute gastroenteritis, as it contains the optimal balance of electrolytes and glucose to prevent dehydration and restore fluid balance. ORS is recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) for the management of diarrhea in children.
Choice B reason: Water is not a good fluid for a child with acute gastroenteritis, as it does not contain any electrolytes or glucose and can dilute the blood sodium level, leading to hyponatremia. Water can also increase the osmotic load in the intestines and worsen diarrhea.
Choice C reason: Broth is not a good fluid for a child with acute gastroenteritis, as it is high in sodium and can cause hypernatremia and dehydration. Broth can also irritate the intestinal mucosa and increase diarrhea.
Choice D reason: Diluted apple juice is not a good fluid for a child with acute gastroenteritis, as it is high in fructose and can cause osmotic diarrhea. Apple juice can also lower the blood pH and cause metabolic acidosis.
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