A nurse is caring for a preschooler who has epiglottitis from a streptococcal infection. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Attempt to obtain a throat culture.
Use a tongue depressor to observe the back of the throat.
Apply humidified oxygen via a mask.
Initiate airborne precautions.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Attempt to obtain a throat culture: This is contraindicated because manipulating the throat could exacerbate airway obstruction, leading to a potential respiratory emergency.
B. Use a tongue depressor to observe the back of the throat: This can provoke a spasm or cause complete airway obstruction in a child with epiglottitis and should be avoided.
C. Apply humidified oxygen via a mask: This helps to keep the airways moist and can provide some relief and improve oxygenation while minimizing the risk of airway manipulation.
D. Initiate airborne precautions: Epiglottitis primarily requires droplet precautions, not airborne. Airborne precautions are used for diseases like tuberculosis, which are spread through smaller droplets that remain suspended in the air.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Restrain the child's arms. Restraining the child's arms is unsafe and can cause injury. It is important to allow the seizure to occur without interference, except to ensure the child’s safety.
B. Insert a padded tongue blade into the child's mouth. This is an outdated and incorrect practice. Inserting anything into a seizing child's mouth can cause injury to the mouth or teeth and poses a choking hazard.
C. Place the child in a side-lying position. This is the correct action as it helps maintain an open airway and allows for drainage of saliva or vomit, reducing the risk of aspiration.
D. Elevate the child's legs on a pillow. This is not an appropriate action during a seizure as it does not address the safety and airway management needs of the child. Keeping the child on their side is more important for airway safety.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Attempt to obtain a throat culture: This is contraindicated because manipulating the throat could exacerbate airway obstruction, leading to a potential respiratory emergency.
B. Use a tongue depressor to observe the back of the throat: This can provoke a spasm or cause complete airway obstruction in a child with epiglottitis and should be avoided.
C. Apply humidified oxygen via a mask: This helps to keep the airways moist and can provide some relief and improve oxygenation while minimizing the risk of airway manipulation.
D. Initiate airborne precautions: Epiglottitis primarily requires droplet precautions, not airborne. Airborne precautions are used for diseases like tuberculosis, which are spread through smaller droplets that remain suspended in the air.
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