A nurse is managing the airway of a child with epiglottitis.
Which statement about airway management is correct?
Tracheostomy is preferred over intubation.
Intubation may be the only option for all cases.
Tracheostomy is less invasive than intubation.
Intubation is always the first choice for airway management.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
Tracheostomy may be necessary in severe cases of epiglottitis where the airway obstruction is life-threatening and cannot be managed with other interventions.
In such cases, creating a surgical airway via tracheostomy can provide a more stable and secure airway, ensuring adequate oxygenation.
However, this option is typically considered when other measures, such as intubation, have failed or are not feasible due to the severity of the obstruction.
Choice B rationale:
Intubation may be required in cases where the airway obstruction is significant, and the child is unable to maintain oxygenation and ventilation adequately.
Intubation allows for mechanical ventilation, ensuring a patent airway and adequate oxygen supply.
However, it is not always the only option and may depend on the severity of the condition and the response to other interventions.
Choice C rationale:
Tracheostomy is more invasive than intubation.
While tracheostomy is a surgical procedure that involves creating an opening in the trachea, intubation involves inserting a tube through the mouth or nose into the trachea.
Tracheostomy is considered more invasive because it requires a surgical incision and the placement of a permanent or temporary tracheostomy tube.
Choice D rationale:
Intubation is not always the first choice for airway management in epiglottitis.
The choice of airway management (intubation, tracheostomy, or other interventions) depends on the severity of the airway obstruction, the child's clinical condition, and the healthcare provider's assessment.
Intubation may be chosen if the obstruction is significant and the child cannot maintain adequate oxygenation and ventilation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Drooling and inability to handle secretions are characteristic manifestations of epiglottitis.
Inflamed epiglottis impairs the child's ability to swallow and manage saliva, leading to drooling.
This symptom is a key clinical indicator of epiglottitis.
Choice B rationale:
Cough and wheezing are not typical manifestations of epiglottitis.
Epiglottitis primarily affects the upper airway, leading to symptoms such as drooling, stridor, and respiratory distress.
Cough and wheezing are more common in lower respiratory tract infections, such as bronchitis or pneumonia.
Choice C rationale:
Cyanosis and pallor are not specific to epiglottitis and can occur in various respiratory and cardiovascular conditions.
While these symptoms indicate decreased oxygenation, they are not unique to epiglottitis and are not considered characteristic manifestations of this condition.
Choice D rationale:
Muffled voice and stridor are characteristic signs of epiglottitis.
A muffled voice occurs due to the swollen epiglottis obstructing airflow, resulting in a change in the sound of the child's voice.
Stridor is a high-pitched, noisy breathing sound that occurs during inspiration and indicates partial airway obstruction.
Both symptoms are indicative of compromised upper airway in epiglottitis.
Choice E rationale:
Tachypnea (rapid breathing) and tachycardia (rapid heartbeat) are common physiological responses to respiratory distress.
In epiglottitis, the child may exhibit these symptoms due to the body's attempt to compensate for decreased oxygen levels.
These manifestations reflect the severity of the condition and the child's physiological response to airway compromise.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The statement "My throat is really sore.”.
is a common symptom of throat infections, including epiglottitis.
While it is concerning, it is not the most concerning symptom in this case.
Epiglottitis can rapidly progress, leading to respiratory distress, which is a life-threatening condition.
Choice B rationale:
The statement "I can't stop drooling.”.
is a significant concern in a child suspected of having epiglottitis.
Drooling and difficulty managing secretions are hallmark signs of epiglottitis and indicate compromised airway protection.
This symptom suggests that the epiglottis is inflamed and obstructing the airway, potentially leading to respiratory distress and the need for urgent intervention.
Choice C rationale:
The statement "I feel restless and agitated.”.
is a non-specific symptom and may be seen in various illnesses, including infections.
While it indicates the child's discomfort, it does not directly point to the severity of the condition or airway compromise, making it less concerning than the inability to handle secretions.
Choice D rationale:
The statement "I'm having trouble breathing.”.
is the most concerning symptom in a child suspected of having epiglottitis.
Difficulty breathing indicates significant airway obstruction, which can rapidly progress to respiratory failure.
This symptom requires immediate medical attention and intervention to secure the airway and prevent further complications.
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