The nurse in the emergency department is caring for a child who appears extremely ill with a high fever, unable to control their oral secretions. with voice hoarseness and inspiratory stridor and inspiratory sternal retractions while breathing. The nurse suspects epiglottitis. Which would the nurse do next?
Contact the assigned emergency room physician to evaluate the need for an advanced airway
Administer intravenous corticosteroids
Obtain a throat culture
inspect the throat to obtain further data to support the diagnosis
The Correct Answer is A
A. Contact the assigned emergency room physician to evaluate the need for an advanced airway
Explanation:
Epiglottitis is a medical emergency that can rapidly progress to airway obstruction. The classic signs and symptoms include a high fever, difficulty swallowing, voice hoarseness, inspiratory stridor, and sternal retractions. Immediate intervention may be necessary to secure the airway. Therefore, contacting the emergency room physician to evaluate the need for an advanced airway (such as intubation) is a priority.
B. Administer intravenous corticosteroids
Explanation: While corticosteroids may be used in the management of epiglottitis to reduce airway inflammation, securing the airway is the priority in the acute phase. Corticosteroids would typically be administered after securing the airway.
C. Obtain a throat culture
Explanation: Obtaining a throat culture is not the immediate priority in the case of suspected epiglottitis. Prompt intervention to secure the airway takes precedence over diagnostic tests.
D. Inspect the throat to obtain further data to support the diagnosis
Explanation: Direct visualization of the throat (inspection) may exacerbate the airway obstruction and is not recommended in the acute management of suspected epiglottitis. The priority is to secure the airway while minimizing agitation and discomfort for the child. Diagnostic procedures, such as obtaining a throat culture, can be considered after the airway is stabilized.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "I will limit my child's fluid intake."
Incorrect: Limiting fluid intake is not typically recommended for children with CF. Maintaining hydration is important, especially since individuals with CF may have increased salt losses in sweat.
B. "We will give our child pancreatic enzymes with snacks and meals."
Correct Answer: This response indicates an understanding of the importance of giving pancreatic enzymes to assist with digestion, as individuals with CF often have pancreatic insufficiency. Pancreatic enzymes help in the absorption of nutrients from food.
C. "We will restrict the amount of salt in our child's food."
Incorrect: While it's true that individuals with CF may need to increase their salt intake due to increased salt losses in sweat, this response suggests restricting salt, which is not in line with the nutritional needs of a child with CF.
D. "I will prepare low-fat meals with limited protein for my child."
Incorrect: Children with CF often need a higher calorie intake, including healthy fats and adequate protein. Restricting fat and protein is not in line with the nutritional needs of a child with CF.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "Range-of-motion exercises must be performed every day."
Explanation: While range-of-motion exercises are important for maintaining joint flexibility in juvenile idiopathic arthritis, it is not advisable to perform these exercises during painful exacerbations. The frequency and intensity of exercises may need to be adjusted based on the child's current condition.
B. "Administer additional pain medication before performing range-of-motion exercises."
Explanation: While pain management is important in the care of a child with juvenile idiopathic arthritis, relying solely on pain medication before exercises may not be the most effective approach. Isometric exercises that are less likely to cause pain can be a better option during exacerbations.
C. "Have the child perform simple isometric exercises during this time."
Explanation:
During a painful exacerbation of juvenile idiopathic arthritis, it is important to maintain joint flexibility and prevent joint contractures. Simple isometric exercises that do not involve joint movement can help in maintaining muscle strength and joint flexibility without exacerbating pain. Range-of-motion exercises may be too painful during an exacerbation, but isometric exercises can be less painful and still beneficial.
D. "Avoid all exercise during painful periods."
Explanation: Complete avoidance of exercise during painful periods is not recommended. Maintaining joint flexibility and muscle strength is important for managing juvenile idiopathic arthritis. However, the type and intensity of exercises should be adjusted based on the child's pain level during exacerbations.
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