A nurse is assessing a toddler who has heart failure. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

A. Contact the assigned emergency room physician to evaluate the need for an advanced airway
Explanation:
Epiglottitis is a medical emergency that can rapidly progress to airway obstruction. The classic signs and symptoms include a high fever, difficulty swallowing, voice hoarseness, inspiratory stridor, and sternal retractions. Immediate intervention may be necessary to secure the airway. Therefore, contacting the emergency room physician to evaluate the need for an advanced airway (such as intubation) is a priority.
B. Administer intravenous corticosteroids
Explanation: While corticosteroids may be used in the management of epiglottitis to reduce airway inflammation, securing the airway is the priority in the acute phase. Corticosteroids would typically be administered after securing the airway.
C. Obtain a throat culture
Explanation: Obtaining a throat culture is not the immediate priority in the case of suspected epiglottitis. Prompt intervention to secure the airway takes precedence over diagnostic tests.
D. Inspect the throat to obtain further data to support the diagnosis
Explanation: Direct visualization of the throat (inspection) may exacerbate the airway obstruction and is not recommended in the acute management of suspected epiglottitis. The priority is to secure the airway while minimizing agitation and discomfort for the child. Diagnostic procedures, such as obtaining a throat culture, can be considered after the airway is stabilized.

A.Move furniture away from the child.
Explanation: Creating a safe environment is important during a seizure. Moving furniture away from the child helps prevent injury.
B.Place the child in a prone position.
Explanation: Placing the child in a prone position (face down) is not recommended. The child should be placed on their side to allow for drainage of oral secretions and to prevent aspiration.
C. Restrain the child.
Explanation: Restraint is generally not recommended during a seizure, as it may cause injury to the child or the person providing care. Allow the seizure to run its course, and focus on keeping the environment safe.
D.Time the seizure.
Explanation: Timing the duration of the seizure is important for medical evaluation and management. Note the start and end times of the seizure.
E. Insert a padded tongue blade in the child's mouth.
Explanation: Inserting any object, including a padded tongue blade, into the child's mouth during a seizure is not recommended. This can lead to oral and dental injuries. Maintaining a clear airway and protecting the child from injury are priorities.
F. Stay with the child.
Explanation: Staying with the child provides support and ensures the child's safety during the seizure. It also allows the caregiver to observe and provide information to healthcare professionals.