A nurse is assessing a child with suspected epiglottitis.
Select all the clinical manifestations that are characteristic of epiglottitis.
Drooling and inability to handle secretions.
Cough and wheezing.
Cyanosis and pallor.
Muffled voice and stridor.
Tachypnea and tachycardia.
Correct Answer : A,D,E
Choice A rationale:
Drooling and inability to handle secretions are characteristic manifestations of epiglottitis.
Inflamed epiglottis impairs the child's ability to swallow and manage saliva, leading to drooling.
This symptom is a key clinical indicator of epiglottitis.
Choice B rationale:
Cough and wheezing are not typical manifestations of epiglottitis.
Epiglottitis primarily affects the upper airway, leading to symptoms such as drooling, stridor, and respiratory distress.
Cough and wheezing are more common in lower respiratory tract infections, such as bronchitis or pneumonia.
Choice C rationale:
Cyanosis and pallor are not specific to epiglottitis and can occur in various respiratory and cardiovascular conditions.
While these symptoms indicate decreased oxygenation, they are not unique to epiglottitis and are not considered characteristic manifestations of this condition.
Choice D rationale:
Muffled voice and stridor are characteristic signs of epiglottitis.
A muffled voice occurs due to the swollen epiglottis obstructing airflow, resulting in a change in the sound of the child's voice.
Stridor is a high-pitched, noisy breathing sound that occurs during inspiration and indicates partial airway obstruction.
Both symptoms are indicative of compromised upper airway in epiglottitis.
Choice E rationale:
Tachypnea (rapid breathing) and tachycardia (rapid heartbeat) are common physiological responses to respiratory distress.
In epiglottitis, the child may exhibit these symptoms due to the body's attempt to compensate for decreased oxygen levels.
These manifestations reflect the severity of the condition and the child's physiological response to airway compromise.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The statement "My throat is really sore.”.
is a common symptom of throat infections, including epiglottitis.
While it is concerning, it is not the most concerning symptom in this case.
Epiglottitis can rapidly progress, leading to respiratory distress, which is a life-threatening condition.
Choice B rationale:
The statement "I can't stop drooling.”.
is a significant concern in a child suspected of having epiglottitis.
Drooling and difficulty managing secretions are hallmark signs of epiglottitis and indicate compromised airway protection.
This symptom suggests that the epiglottis is inflamed and obstructing the airway, potentially leading to respiratory distress and the need for urgent intervention.
Choice C rationale:
The statement "I feel restless and agitated.”.
is a non-specific symptom and may be seen in various illnesses, including infections.
While it indicates the child's discomfort, it does not directly point to the severity of the condition or airway compromise, making it less concerning than the inability to handle secretions.
Choice D rationale:
The statement "I'm having trouble breathing.”.
is the most concerning symptom in a child suspected of having epiglottitis.
Difficulty breathing indicates significant airway obstruction, which can rapidly progress to respiratory failure.
This symptom requires immediate medical attention and intervention to secure the airway and prevent further complications.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The importance of oral medications to relieve symptoms is relevant, but it doesn't specifically prevent epiglottitis.
Preventive measures like vaccination are more crucial in avoiding the condition.
Choice B rationale:
Educating the child and their family about the signs and symptoms of epiglottitis is essential for early recognition and prompt medical intervention.
Understanding the symptoms can lead to quicker medical attention, which is vital in managing epiglottitis effectively.
Choice C rationale:
Avoiding complete immunization against Hib is not a recommended practice.
Hib vaccination significantly reduces the risk of epiglottitis caused by Hib bacteria.
Encouraging complete immunization is a key preventive measure against the disease.
Choice D rationale:
Using nebulized medications for treatment might be a part of the management plan if the child already has epiglottitis, but it's not a preventive measure.
Prevention focuses on vaccination and awareness of symptoms, making choice D less relevant in the context of prevention.
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