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 C
Explanation
A. "I will restrict the amount of salt in my child's meals."
Restricting salt intake is not typically recommended for children with cystic fibrosis (CF). In fact, individuals with CF often have increased salt requirements due to excessive salt loss through sweat. Restricting salt intake could potentially lead to electrolyte imbalances. Therefore, this statement does not demonstrate an understanding of the dietary management necessary for CF.
B. "I will put my child in daycare to ensure that she socializes with other children."
While socialization is important for a child's development, placing a child with CF in daycare may increase their risk of exposure to respiratory infections, which can be particularly dangerous for individuals with CF due to their compromised respiratory function. Therefore, this statement does not demonstrate an understanding of the infection control measures necessary for managing CF.
C. "I will make sure my child washes her hands before eating.”
This statement demonstrates an understanding of infection control measures, which are crucial for individuals with CF to reduce the risk of respiratory infections. Washing hands before eating helps prevent the transmission of bacteria and viruses that can cause respiratory infections. Therefore, this statement indicates an understanding of an important aspect of managing CF.
D. “I will provide low-fat meals for my child."
Providing low-fat meals is not typically recommended for children with CF. CF often leads to malabsorption of fats, so a diet high in calories and fat is typically recommended to ensure adequate nutrition and weight gain. Therefore, this statement does not demonstrate an understanding of the dietary recommendations necessary for managing CF.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Respiratory
Kawasaki disease primarily affects the cardiovascular system rather than the respiratory system. While respiratory symptoms such as cough or congestion may occur in some cases, they are not the primary focus of the disease.
B. Gastrointestinal
Although gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting, or diarrhea can occur in Kawasaki disease, they are not the primary system affected. Gastrointestinal symptoms are considered part of the systemic manifestations of the disease but do not define its primary pathology.
C. Cardiovascular
This is the correct answer. Kawasaki disease primarily affects the cardiovascular system. It is characterized by inflammation of the blood vessels, particularly the medium-sized arteries, including the coronary arteries. Coronary artery involvement can lead to coronary artery aneurysms and other cardiovascular complications, making the cardiovascular system the primary focus of the disease.
D. Integumentary
The integumentary system (skin) is not primarily affected by Kawasaki disease. While changes in the skin, such as a rash, may occur as part of the systemic manifestations of the disease, they are not the primary focus of Kawasaki disease.
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