A nurse is planning care for a child who has epiglottitis. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?
Obtain a throat culture.
Visualize the epiglottis using a tongue depressor.
Provide moist air to reduce the inflammation of the epiglottis
Initiate airborne precautions.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Obtain a throat culture.
This option is not appropriate as a primary nursing action in the acute management of epiglottitis. While obtaining a throat culture may be necessary for diagnostic purposes, it is not a priority in the immediate care of a child with suspected epiglottitis. The focus should be on ensuring airway patency and providing emergency treatment.
B. Visualize the epiglottis using a tongue depressor.
This option is contraindicated in the acute management of epiglottitis. Direct visualization of the epiglottis using a tongue depressor or other instruments can provoke spasm of the epiglottis and worsen airway obstruction. Attempting to visualize the epiglottis should be avoided until the child's airway has been secured in a controlled environment, such as in the operating room under anesthesia.
C. Provide moist air to reduce the inflammation of the epiglottis.
This option is appropriate. Providing moist air, such as humidified oxygen or a cool mist, can help soothe the inflamed tissues of the epiglottis and upper airway. Moist air may help alleviate discomfort and reduce inflammation, although it will not directly address the risk of airway obstruction. It is often used as supportive therapy in conjunction with other interventions.
D. Initiate airborne precautions.
This option is not necessary for the care of a child with epiglottitis. Epiglottitis is not typically transmitted through airborne droplets. The priority in the management of epiglottitis is ensuring a patent airway and providing appropriate treatment to reduce inflammation and prevent complications.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Drooling:
Drooling can occur post-tonsillectomy due to throat discomfort or swelling. However, it is not specific to hemorrhage. It may result from pain, swelling, or difficulty swallowing.
B. Continuous swallowing:
Continuous swallowing is indeed a clinical manifestation of hemorrhage after a tonsillectomy. The presence of blood in the throat triggers the swallowing reflex, leading to frequent swallowing by the patient. This symptom is characteristic of hemorrhage and requires immediate medical attention.
C. Poor fluid intake:
Poor fluid intake can occur post-tonsillectomy due to pain, discomfort, or nausea. While it can be a concern for overall recovery, it is not specific to hemorrhage.
D. Increased pain:
Increased pain can be associated with hemorrhage, especially if it is sudden, severe, or worsening. However, it is not as specific as continuous swallowing in indicating hemorrhage post-tonsillectomy. Increased pain can also be due to various other reasons such as inflammation, infection, or trauma.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Give the child a stuffed animal: Providing a comforting item like a stuffed animal can help the child feel more secure and may offer some comfort during the parent's absence. This option is appropriate as it addresses the child's emotional needs.
B. Inform the child that her parent will be back in 2 hours: While it's helpful to provide reassurance to the child, a 2-year-old may not fully understand the concept of time, and telling them that their parent will return in 2 hours may not effectively alleviate their distress. This option may not be as immediately comforting as providing a tangible source of comfort.
C. Call the parent to return to the child's room: If possible, having the parent return to the child's room can provide the most direct comfort and reassurance to the child during a tantrum. However, it may not always be feasible for the parent to return immediately, especially if they are occupied or attending to other responsibilities.
D. Leave the child alone in the room for 5 minutes: Leaving the child alone during a tantrum can exacerbate feelings of distress and abandonment, potentially escalating the situation further. It's essential to provide support and reassurance to the child during moments of distress rather than leaving them alone.
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