When conducting a nursing assessment of a child with suspected epiglottitis, what information should the nurse include in the history-taking process? .

Choice A rationale:

Epiglottitis is most commonly caused by bacterial infections, specifically Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) bacteria.

This bacterium can cause inflammation and swelling of the epiglottis, leading to airway obstruction.

Viral infections are not the primary cause of epiglottitis in children.

Choice B rationale:

Epiglottitis primarily affects children, not adolescents and adults.

The peak incidence occurs in children between the ages of 2 and 6 years.

Choice C rationale:

The child adopting a tripod position, leaning forward with outstretched arms, is a classic sign of epiglottitis.

This position helps maximize airway patency and ease breathing.

It is a protective mechanism that children instinctively assume to maintain their airway.

Choice D rationale:

Epiglottitis does not typically result in a loud, high-pitched cry.

The child with epiglottitis is usually quiet and prefers to sit still in a tripod position to maintain airway patency.

Choice A rationale:

Difficulty swallowing and throat pain are common symptoms of epiglottitis, but they do not necessarily indicate the severity of the condition.

Choice B rationale:

Feeling anxious and restless may be a sign of distress, but it does not specifically indicate the severity of epiglottitis.

Choice C rationale:

Making a high-pitched sound when breathing (called stridor) is a serious symptom indicating airway obstruction.

While this is concerning, it is not the most critical manifestation in evaluating the severity of epiglottitis.

Choice D rationale:

Cyanosis, characterized by a bluish discoloration of the skin and lips, indicates severe lack of oxygen and is a critical sign in assessing the severity of epiglottitis.

Cyanosis suggests inadequate oxygenation and is indicative of impending respiratory failure, requiring immediate medical intervention.