A nurse is caring for a toddler who has laryngotracheobronchitis. For which of the following findings should the nurse monitor to detect airway obstruction?

A. Apical:

The apical pulse is the most reliable location to assess the pulse in infants. It is located at the apex of the heart, which is typically found at the fifth intercostal space at the midclavicular line. Assessing the apical pulse allows for a direct measure of the heart rate and rhythm, which is especially important in infants to evaluate cardiac function accurately. The apical pulse is commonly assessed using a stethoscope placed at the point of maximum impulse (PMI) on the chest.

B. Dorsalis pedis:

The dorsalis pedis pulse is located on the top of the foot, typically in the region between the first and second metatarsal bones. While the dorsalis pedis pulse can be palpated in older children and adults, it may be difficult to palpate accurately in infants, especially those with smaller or more delicate feet. Therefore, it is not the preferred site for pulse assessment in infants.

C. Temporal:

The temporal pulse is located on the side of the head, just above the ear. While the temporal pulse can be palpated in some individuals, it is not typically used to assess the pulse in infants. Palpating the temporal pulse in infants may be more challenging and less reliable compared to other pulse sites, especially given the smaller size of the temporal artery in infants.

D. Carotid:

The carotid pulse is located in the neck, alongside the trachea, and can be palpated by gently pressing the fingers against the carotid artery. While the carotid pulse is easily palpable in adults and older children, it is not typically the preferred site for pulse assessment in infants. Palpating the carotid pulse in infants carries a risk of injury to the delicate structures in the neck and may not provide an accurate representation of the pulse rate.

A. Place the infant in prone position.

This option is incorrect. Placing the infant in the prone position (lying on the stomach) could put pressure on the spinal lesion, potentially causing discomfort or complications. It's important to minimize pressure on the affected area in infants with spina bifida.

B. Cover the infant's lesion with a dry cloth.

This option is incorrect. While keeping the lesion clean and dry is important for preventing infection, simply covering it with a dry cloth may not provide adequate protection. Proper wound care techniques, such as using sterile dressings and cleaning the area with prescribed solutions, are typically necessary to prevent infection and promote healing.

C. Feed the infant through an NG tube.

This option is incorrect. While infants with severe forms of spina bifida may have difficulty feeding due to associated complications, such as difficulty swallowing or weak sucking reflexes, feeding through a nasogastric (NG) tube is not a standard intervention for spina bifida itself. Feeding methods would depend on the specific needs and abilities of the infant, and may involve breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, or other methods under the guidance of healthcare professionals.

D. Diapering over a low defect will keep the infant free from infection.

This option is correct. Diapering over a low defect (the opening in the spine caused by spina bifida) helps to keep the area clean and reduce the risk of infection. By properly covering the defect with a diaper, exposure to urine and feces, which can increase the risk of infection, is minimized. Additionally, regular diaper changes and proper hygiene practices are essential for preventing complications in infants with spina bifida.