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. "Limit your caloric intake to avoid becoming overweight."
Explanation: This statement emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy weight through balanced nutrition and avoiding excessive caloric intake. It promotes the prevention of overweight and obesity.
B. "Tanning beds are much safer than lying in the sun."
Explanation: This statement is incorrect. Tanning beds are not safer than natural sunlight and are associated with an increased risk of skin cancer. Adolescents should be advised to protect their skin from harmful UV radiation.
C. "Share piercing needles only with close friends you trust."
Explanation: This statement is unsafe and promotes risky behavior. Sharing piercing needles can lead to the transmission of bloodborne infections such as HIV and hepatitis. The nurse should emphasize the importance of using sterile needles and avoiding risky behaviors.
D. "Your need for sleep will increase during periods of growth."
Explanation:
During periods of growth, adolescents often experience increased physical and hormonal changes, and adequate sleep is crucial for overall health and well-being. Sleep plays a vital role in growth, immune function, and cognitive performance. Adolescents should be encouraged to prioritize getting sufficient sleep for their age group.