A nurse is providing site care for a child who a gastrostomy enteral tube. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A) Request an x-ray of the neck: In cases of suspected epiglottitis, a lateral neck x-ray can help confirm the diagnosis by showing the classic "thumbprint sign," which indicates swelling of the epiglottis. This is a critical diagnostic step, but it should only be performed in a controlled setting where the child’s airway can be monitored closely. The priority is to avoid any procedures that may cause irritation or further compromise the airway.

B) Monitor urine for protein: Monitoring urine for protein is not relevant to the management of epiglottitis. This condition is related to inflammation and obstruction of the upper airway, and the focus should be on respiratory management rather than renal function.

C) Obtain a nasopharyngeal swab: While obtaining a nasopharyngeal swab can help identify the organism causing an infection (often bacterial), it is not the immediate priority in a child with suspected epiglottitis. The child’s airway is the most critical concern, and diagnostic interventions that could potentially cause further distress or obstruction (such as swabbing) should be avoided until airway management is stable.

D) Administer fluconazole: Fluconazole is an antifungal medication, and its use is not appropriate for epiglottitis. Epiglottitis is most often caused by a bacterial infection, particularly Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), which requires antibiotic therapy, not antifungals.

A) "I will wash my baby’s head using a moist towelette": Using a moist towelette to wash a newborn’s head is not the best approach. Newborns should be bathed gently with warm water and mild soap, especially for sensitive areas like the scalp. A moist towelette could irritate the baby’s delicate skin or lead to unnecessary chemicals on the skin.

B) "I will give my baby a bath every day": Giving a newborn a bath every day is not typically necessary. Bathing a newborn 2-3 times per week is usually sufficient to keep the baby clean without drying out the skin. Daily baths can be too harsh on a newborn’s skin, especially in the first few weeks.

C) "I will bathe my baby under a faucet of running water": Bathing a newborn under running water can be dangerous, as it may be difficult to control the temperature of the water or the baby could be at risk of slipping. It is safer to use a basin of warm water and a soft washcloth to gently bathe the baby.

D) "I will wash my baby's face with a warm, wet washcloth without soap": This is the correct and safe approach to washing a newborn’s face. Newborns have very sensitive skin, and it’s best to wash the face with just warm water and a soft washcloth to avoid irritation. Using soap on the face may dry out or irritate their delicate skin.