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. Respiratory

Kawasaki disease primarily affects the cardiovascular system rather than the respiratory system. While respiratory symptoms such as cough or congestion may occur in some cases, they are not the primary focus of the disease.

B. Gastrointestinal

Although gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting, or diarrhea can occur in Kawasaki disease, they are not the primary system affected. Gastrointestinal symptoms are considered part of the systemic manifestations of the disease but do not define its primary pathology.

C. Cardiovascular

This is the correct answer. Kawasaki disease primarily affects the cardiovascular system. It is characterized by inflammation of the blood vessels, particularly the medium-sized arteries, including the coronary arteries. Coronary artery involvement can lead to coronary artery aneurysms and other cardiovascular complications, making the cardiovascular system the primary focus of the disease.

D. Integumentary

The integumentary system (skin) is not primarily affected by Kawasaki disease. While changes in the skin, such as a rash, may occur as part of the systemic manifestations of the disease, they are not the primary focus of Kawasaki disease.

A. Obtain a throat culture.

This option is not appropriate as a primary nursing action in the acute management of epiglottitis. While obtaining a throat culture may be necessary for diagnostic purposes, it is not a priority in the immediate care of a child with suspected epiglottitis. The focus should be on ensuring airway patency and providing emergency treatment.

B. Visualize the epiglottis using a tongue depressor.

This option is contraindicated in the acute management of epiglottitis. Direct visualization of the epiglottis using a tongue depressor or other instruments can provoke spasm of the epiglottis and worsen airway obstruction. Attempting to visualize the epiglottis should be avoided until the child's airway has been secured in a controlled environment, such as in the operating room under anesthesia.

C. Provide moist air to reduce the inflammation of the epiglottis.

This option is appropriate. Providing moist air, such as humidified oxygen or a cool mist, can help soothe the inflamed tissues of the epiglottis and upper airway. Moist air may help alleviate discomfort and reduce inflammation, although it will not directly address the risk of airway obstruction. It is often used as supportive therapy in conjunction with other interventions.

D. Initiate airborne precautions.

This option is not necessary for the care of a child with epiglottitis. Epiglottitis is not typically transmitted through airborne droplets. The priority in the management of epiglottitis is ensuring a patent airway and providing appropriate treatment to reduce inflammation and prevent complications.