A client is brought to the emergency room with suspected epiglottitis.
The client is drooling saliva and has difficulty swallowing.
Which statement accurately describes the pathophysiology of epiglottitis?
"Epiglottitis causes the epiglottis to shrink and recede into the throat.”..
"The inflammation in epiglottitis primarily affects the vocal cords.”..
"Epiglottitis leads to increased airway resistance and respiratory distress.”..
"The swelling in epiglottitis is limited to the vocal cord area.”..
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
Epiglottitis does not cause the epiglottis to shrink and recede into the throat.
Instead, it leads to inflammation and swelling of the epiglottis, causing airway obstruction.
Choice B rationale:
The inflammation in epiglottitis does not primarily affect the vocal cords.
It specifically affects the epiglottis, a flap-like structure located at the base of the tongue, which covers the trachea during swallowing to prevent food or liquid from entering the windpipe.
Choice C rationale:
Epiglottitis leads to increased airway resistance and respiratory distress due to the swelling and obstruction of the airway.
This can result in difficulty swallowing, drooling, and a muffled voice, as seen in the client's symptoms described in the question.
Choice D rationale:
The swelling in epiglottitis is not limited to the vocal cord area.
It involves the epiglottis, which can obstruct the airway and cause respiratory distress.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Epiglottitis is not necessarily more common in females than in males.
It can affect both genders equally.
Choice B rationale:
While epiglottitis is more common in children, it primarily affects those between the ages of 2 and 8 years old, not just infants under 1 year old.
Choice C rationale:
There is no significant evidence to suggest that epiglottitis is more prevalent in colder months.
The occurrence of epiglottitis is not strictly related to seasonal changes.
Choice D rationale:
Children between 2 and 8 years old are at higher risk of developing epiglottitis.
This age group is more susceptible due to their smaller airways and less developed immune systems, making them prone to infections like epiglottitis.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The importance of oral medications to relieve symptoms is relevant, but it doesn't specifically prevent epiglottitis.
Preventive measures like vaccination are more crucial in avoiding the condition.
Choice B rationale:
Educating the child and their family about the signs and symptoms of epiglottitis is essential for early recognition and prompt medical intervention.
Understanding the symptoms can lead to quicker medical attention, which is vital in managing epiglottitis effectively.
Choice C rationale:
Avoiding complete immunization against Hib is not a recommended practice.
Hib vaccination significantly reduces the risk of epiglottitis caused by Hib bacteria.
Encouraging complete immunization is a key preventive measure against the disease.
Choice D rationale:
Using nebulized medications for treatment might be a part of the management plan if the child already has epiglottitis, but it's not a preventive measure.
Prevention focuses on vaccination and awareness of symptoms, making choice D less relevant in the context of prevention.
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