A nurse is monitoring an infant who is 6 months old and has sneezing, coughing, nasal congestion, intermittent fever, and apneic spells. The nurse should recognize these findings are consistent with which of the following diagnoses?

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 correct, as excessive movement can interfere with the accuracy of the pulse oximeter. The parents should ensure that the infant is calm and still when measuring the oxygen saturation.

Choice B reason: A pulse oximeter reading of 100% is not necessarily a cause for concern. In healthy individuals, a saturation level of 100% is achievable and does not require immediate notification to the doctor. It means that the infant's hemoglobin is fully saturated with oxygen, which is the goal of oxygen therapy. However, if you notice any issues or if the pulse oximeter consistently reads 100%, it would be a good idea to notify a healthcare professional.

Choice C reason: The probe placement does not need to be rotated every 24 hours. Once the probe is correctly positioned (usually on a finger or toe), it can remain in place for continuous monitoring without needing frequent adjustments.

Choice D reason: This statement is correct, as the probe of the pulse oximeter can be applied to a finger or a toe, depending on the size and fit of the probe. The parents should make sure that the probe is not too tight or loose, and that it does not interfere with the circulation of the extremity.