A nurse is assisting with the care of a preschooler who has epiglottitis. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Request an x-ray of the neck.
Monitor urine for protein.
Obtain a nasopharyngeal swab
Administer fluconazole.
The Correct Answer is A
A) Request an x-ray of the neck: In cases of suspected epiglottitis, a lateral neck x-ray can help confirm the diagnosis by showing the classic "thumbprint sign," which indicates swelling of the epiglottis. This is a critical diagnostic step, but it should only be performed in a controlled setting where the child’s airway can be monitored closely. The priority is to avoid any procedures that may cause irritation or further compromise the airway.
B) Monitor urine for protein: Monitoring urine for protein is not relevant to the management of epiglottitis. This condition is related to inflammation and obstruction of the upper airway, and the focus should be on respiratory management rather than renal function.
C) Obtain a nasopharyngeal swab: While obtaining a nasopharyngeal swab can help identify the organism causing an infection (often bacterial), it is not the immediate priority in a child with suspected epiglottitis. The child’s airway is the most critical concern, and diagnostic interventions that could potentially cause further distress or obstruction (such as swabbing) should be avoided until airway management is stable.
D) Administer fluconazole: Fluconazole is an antifungal medication, and its use is not appropriate for epiglottitis. Epiglottitis is most often caused by a bacterial infection, particularly Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), which requires antibiotic therapy, not antifungals.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Rolls from back to abdomen: Rolling from back to abdomen is a typical developmental milestone for a 4-month-old infant. By this age, infants usually have increased muscle strength and coordination, allowing them to start rolling over. This movement helps build their core strength, which is important for later developmental milestones like sitting up and crawling.
B) Moves objects to mouth: It is common for a 4-month-old to move objects to their mouth as they begin exploring the world around them. This action is a key part of sensory development and helps infants develop their hand-to-mouth coordination. Additionally, this behavior assists in teething and the development of oral motor skills.
C) Anterior fontanel closed: The anterior fontanel normally closes between 12 to 18 months of age. If it is closed at 4 months, it may suggest abnormal cranial growth, such as craniosynostosis, where the sutures of the skull close too early. This could lead to increased pressure on the brain, which can cause developmental delays or other complications, so the provider should be notified for further assessment.
D) Posterior fontanel closed: The posterior fontanel typically closes by 2 to 3 months of age. If it is closed by 4 months, it is completely normal and indicates proper cranial development. The closing of the posterior fontanel helps ensure the skull's bones are fusing together as expected, and it does not raise any concerns at this stage.
Correct Answer is ["D","E"]
Explanation
D. Facial nerve assessment: The development of left facial droop and asymmetry postoperatively suggests potential facial nerve (cranial nerve VII) injury during the stapedectomy. This requires immediate evaluation to determine if it is temporary due to surgical manipulation or a sign of nerve damage.
E. Vertigo: Postoperative vertigo and nausea are common but should be monitored closely because stapedectomy involves inner ear structures responsible for balance. Persistent or worsening vertigo may indicate inner ear trauma or perilymphatic fistula, requiring further assessment.
Incorrect:
A. Pain rating: Pain is expected after surgery and can be managed with prescribed analgesics.
B. Lung assessment: Bilateral clear breath sounds do not indicate respiratory distress or complications.
C. Pupils: The slight decrease in pupil size (3.5 mm to 3 mm) is not clinically significant and remains within normal limits.
F. Diminished hearing: Hearing loss is expected post-stapedectomy due to packing in the ear and middle ear healing. Improvement typically occurs over weeks.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.