A nurse is caring for a child who is experiencing an acute asthma attack. Which of the following medications should the nurse administer first?

A. Decreased stridor: Stridor is a high-pitched, noisy breathing sound caused by turbulent airflow through a narrowed or partially obstructed airway. In laryngotracheobronchitis, stridor is often present and may worsen with increasing airway obstruction. Therefore, decreased stridor would not be a typical finding associated with airway obstruction in this condition.

B. Increased restlessness: Increased restlessness can be a sign of worsening respiratory distress and impending airway obstruction. As the child struggles to breathe, they may become increasingly agitated and restless, indicating the need for prompt intervention to ensure adequate oxygenation.

C. Decreased heart rate: Decreased heart rate (bradycardia) is not typically associated with airway obstruction in laryngotracheobronchitis. In fact, the heart rate may increase as a compensatory response to hypoxia and respiratory distress.

D. Decreased temperature: Changes in temperature are not typically associated with airway obstruction in laryngotracheobronchitis. The focus of monitoring in this condition is primarily on respiratory distress and signs of worsening airway obstruction.

A. Drink eight glasses of fluid daily: This is crucial advice for patients with sickle cell anemia, as adequate hydration helps prevent sickling of red blood cells and reduces the risk of vaso-occlusive crises. Therefore, this precaution is appropriate and should be included in discharge teaching.

B. Maintain an updated Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) immunization: While vaccination is essential for overall health, maintaining Hib immunization is not directly related to sickle cell anemia or vaso-occlusive crises. However, it's still important for the child's general well-being and should be addressed but may not be the priority in discharge teaching for sickle cell anemia.

C. Avoid playground activities at school: Children with sickle cell anemia are at risk of vaso-occlusive crises triggered by dehydration, fatigue, or extreme physical exertion. While playground activities can be strenuous, completely avoiding them may not be necessary. Instead, the child should be educated on the importance of staying hydrated, taking breaks when needed, and avoiding excessive physical strain.

D. Assume postural drainage positions every 6 hours: Postural drainage is not typically indicated for sickle cell anemia or vaso-occlusive crises unless there are specific respiratory complications. This precaution is not relevant to the management of sickle cell anemia and should not be included in discharge teaching for this condition.