A nurse is caring for a 4-year-old child suspected of having epiglottitis.
The child presents with a muffled voice and is leaning forward with outstretched arms.
Which statement regarding epiglottitis is accurate?

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.

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.