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 ["A","C"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) infection is a significant risk factor for epiglottitis in children.
Hib vaccination has significantly reduced the incidence of epiglottitis caused by this bacterium.
Choice B rationale:
Trauma to the throat or neck is not a common risk factor for epiglottitis.
The primary cause is bacterial infection, especially by Hib bacteria.
Choice C rationale:
Thermal injury from hot liquids can lead to thermal epiglottitis, a rare condition caused by the inhalation of hot steam or liquid, resulting in inflammation and swelling of the epiglottis.
Choice D rationale:
Seasonal factors are not a direct risk factor for epiglottitis.
The condition is primarily caused by bacterial infections and is not significantly influenced by seasonal changes.
Choice E rationale:
Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection is not a common cause of epiglottitis.
Bacterial infections, especially Hib, are the primary culprits in pediatric cases of epiglottitis.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Administering antibiotics intravenously is important in treating the infection, but it doesn't directly address maintaining a patent airway.
The priority in epiglottitis is to ensure an open airway to prevent respiratory distress.
Choice B rationale:
Providing humidified air or cool mist therapy helps moisten the airway, making it easier for the child to breathe.
This intervention can provide immediate relief and aid in maintaining a patent airway, which is crucial in epiglottitis.
Choice C rationale:
Administering corticosteroids intravenously can help reduce inflammation, but it might not be the primary intervention to maintain a patent airway.
Humidified air therapy directly addresses airway moisture, which is essential in epiglottitis management.
Choice D rationale:
Administering analgesics and antipyretics can address pain and fever associated with epiglottitis but does not directly contribute to maintaining a patent airway.
While these medications can improve the child's comfort, they are not the priority in this situation.
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