A nurse is caring for a toddler who has acute laryngotracheobronchitis and has been placed in a cool mist tent. Which of the following findings should indicate to the nurse that the treatment is effective?

Choice A reason: Withholding fluids until the client demonstrates a gag reflex is a preventive measure to avoid aspiration of liquids into the lungs. The gag reflex is a protective mechanism that prevents foreign objects from entering the airway. It can be impaired by anesthesia, surgery, or trauma. Therefore, the nurse should assess the client's gag reflex before offering fluids or food¹.

Choice B reason: Suctioning the nasopharynx as needed is another preventive measure to avoid aspiration of blood or secretions into the lungs. The nurse should monitor the client for signs of bleeding, such as frequent swallowing, restlessness, or bright red drainage. The nurse should also avoid stimulating the throat with tongue blades, straws, or suction catheters, as this can cause bleeding or spasm¹.

Choice C reason: Placing a bedside humidifier at the head of the client's bed is not a preventive measure to avoid aspiration, but rather a comfort measure to soothe the throat and reduce inflammation. Humidified air can help moisten the mucous membranes and promote healing. However, it does not prevent fluids or solids from entering the airway².

Choice D reason: Performing chest physiotherapy is not a preventive measure to avoid aspiration, but rather a treatment measure for clients who have respiratory complications, such as atelectasis or pneumonia. Chest physiotherapy involves percussion, vibration, and postural drainage to mobilize and remove secretions from the lungs. It is not indicated for clients who are postoperative following a tonsillectomy, as it can increase the risk of bleeding or pain³.

Choice E reason: Administering an antiemetic drug if the client is nauseous is a preventive measure to avoid aspiration of vomitus into the lungs. Nausea and vomiting are common postoperative complications that can be caused by anesthesia, pain, or opioids. The nurse should assess the client's nausea level and administer antiemetic drugs as prescribed. The nurse should also position the client on the side or with the head elevated to prevent aspiration¹.

Choice A reason: This statement is incorrect, as giving an oral rehydration solution to an infant who is projectile vomiting may worsen the dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. The nurse should advise the parent to stop feeding the infant and seek medical attention.

Choice B reason: This statement is incorrect, as burping the baby more frequently during feedings may not prevent the projectile vomiting, which is caused by a mechanical obstruction of the stomach, not by air swallowing. The nurse should assess the parent for signs of pyloric stenosis, such as a palpable olive-shaped mass in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen.

Choice C reason: This statement is correct, as bringing the baby in to the clinic today is the best course of action for an infant who is projectile vomiting, which is a sign of a serious condition such as pyloric stenosis, a narrowing of the opening between the stomach and the small intestine. The nurse should inform the parent that the infant needs immediate evaluation and treatment to prevent complications such as dehydration, malnutrition, and metabolic alkalosis.

Choice D reason: This statement is incorrect, as trying switching to a different formula may not help the infant who is projectile vomiting, which is not related to the type of formula, but to a structural problem in the gastrointestinal tract. The nurse should not suggest changing the formula without consulting the provider.