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 C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Computed tomography (CT) scan provides detailed images of internal structures but is not the preferred imaging test for visualizing a swollen epiglottis.
CT scans are more commonly used for evaluating conditions in other parts of the body, such as the brain or abdomen, and may not provide the necessary detail for assessing the upper airway.
Choice B rationale:
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can produce high-resolution images of soft tissues, but it is not the first choice for visualizing a swollen epiglottis.
MRI scans are time-consuming and may not be readily available in urgent situations.
In cases of suspected epiglottitis, prompt diagnosis and intervention are crucial to prevent respiratory compromise.
Choice C rationale:
Lateral neck radiograph is the preferred imaging test for visualizing a swollen epiglottis.
This X-ray technique allows healthcare providers to assess the size of the epiglottis and its relationship with nearby structures.
A classic finding in epiglottitis on a lateral neck radiograph is a swollen epiglottis, giving a thumbprint sign appearance.
This imaging study can aid in the diagnosis and guide appropriate management.
Choice D rationale:
X-ray of the chest is not the preferred imaging test for evaluating epiglottitis.
While a chest X-ray can provide information about the lungs and surrounding structures, it does not offer the necessary detail to visualize the upper airway, including the epiglottis.
Lateral neck radiograph is specifically tailored to assess the structures in the throat region and is the imaging modality of choice in suspected cases of epiglottitis.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Streptococcus pneumoniae is a common bacterium associated with respiratory infections, but it is not the most common causative agent of epiglottitis in children.
Choice B rationale:
Staphylococcus aureus can cause various infections, but it is not the primary causative agent of epiglottitis in children.
Choice C rationale:
Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) is the most common causative agent of epiglottitis in children.
Hib infection can lead to inflammation and swelling of the epiglottis, causing the characteristic symptoms of epiglottitis, including difficulty swallowing and a muffled voice.
Choice D rationale:
Neisseria meningitidis is a bacterium that can cause meningitis and septicemia, but it is not the main causative agent of epiglottitis.
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