A 4-year-old is admitted to the ER and is being assessed by a nurse. What are the clinical findings of epiglottitis? (Select All that Apply.)
Stridor
Dry, barking cough
Difficulty swallowing
Drooling
Hoarseness and difficulty speaking
Low-grade fever
Correct Answer : A,C,D,E
A. Stridor is a hallmark sign of upper airway obstruction and is commonly present in epiglottitis.
B. A dry, barking cough is more characteristic of croup (laryngotracheobronchitis), not epiglottitis.
C. Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) occurs due to inflammation and swelling of the epiglottis.
D. Drooling is a key symptom because the child is unable or unwilling to swallow secretions due to pain and obstruction.
E. Hoarseness and difficulty speaking (muffled or "hot potato" voice) are common due to swelling near the vocal cords and larynx.
F. Epiglottitis typically presents with a sudden high-grade fever, not a low-grade one.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. While hydration is important in respiratory illnesses, improved hydration is not the primary goal of using a cool mist tent.
B. A barking cough is a characteristic symptom of laryngotracheobronchitis (croup) and indicates ongoing airway irritation, not improvement.
C.. Stridor is a high-pitched, harsh sound caused by airway narrowing. A decrease in stridor indicates reduced inflammation and improved airway patency, which is the intended effect of the cool mist therapy.
D. A decreased temperature may occur with other supportive care or antipyretics, but it is not a direct indicator of improved airway function from mist therapy.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. This response may come across as judgmental or confrontational, and it doesn’t validate the parent's concern or offer reassurance.
B. This response minimizes the parent's feelings and does not offer helpful or informative support.
C. While empathetic, this response shifts the focus to the nurse rather than addressing the parent's concern with a professional explanation.
D. Hospitalization can cause regression in young children due to stress, illness, or unfamiliar environments. This response offers reassurance, normalizes the behavior, and provides an educational explanation to ease the parent's embarrassment and concern.
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