A nurse is assessing a 6-year-old child with suspected epiglottitis.
The child is leaning forward and has a muffled voice.
Which statement is true regarding the demographics of epiglottitis?

Choice A rationale:

Computed tomography (CT) scan provides detailed images of internal structures but is not the preferred imaging test for visualizing a swollen epiglottis.

CT scans are more commonly used for evaluating conditions in other parts of the body, such as the brain or abdomen, and may not provide the necessary detail for assessing the upper airway.

Choice B rationale:

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can produce high-resolution images of soft tissues, but it is not the first choice for visualizing a swollen epiglottis.

MRI scans are time-consuming and may not be readily available in urgent situations.

In cases of suspected epiglottitis, prompt diagnosis and intervention are crucial to prevent respiratory compromise.

Choice C rationale:

Lateral neck radiograph is the preferred imaging test for visualizing a swollen epiglottis.

This X-ray technique allows healthcare providers to assess the size of the epiglottis and its relationship with nearby structures.

A classic finding in epiglottitis on a lateral neck radiograph is a swollen epiglottis, giving a thumbprint sign appearance.

This imaging study can aid in the diagnosis and guide appropriate management.

Choice D rationale:

X-ray of the chest is not the preferred imaging test for evaluating epiglottitis.

While a chest X-ray can provide information about the lungs and surrounding structures, it does not offer the necessary detail to visualize the upper airway, including the epiglottis.

Lateral neck radiograph is specifically tailored to assess the structures in the throat region and is the imaging modality of choice in suspected cases of epiglottitis.

Choice A rationale:

Drooling and inability to handle secretions are characteristic manifestations of epiglottitis.

Inflamed epiglottis impairs the child's ability to swallow and manage saliva, leading to drooling.

This symptom is a key clinical indicator of epiglottitis.

Choice B rationale:

Cough and wheezing are not typical manifestations of epiglottitis.

Epiglottitis primarily affects the upper airway, leading to symptoms such as drooling, stridor, and respiratory distress.

Cough and wheezing are more common in lower respiratory tract infections, such as bronchitis or pneumonia.

Choice C rationale:

Cyanosis and pallor are not specific to epiglottitis and can occur in various respiratory and cardiovascular conditions.

While these symptoms indicate decreased oxygenation, they are not unique to epiglottitis and are not considered characteristic manifestations of this condition.

Choice D rationale:

Muffled voice and stridor are characteristic signs of epiglottitis.

A muffled voice occurs due to the swollen epiglottis obstructing airflow, resulting in a change in the sound of the child's voice.

Stridor is a high-pitched, noisy breathing sound that occurs during inspiration and indicates partial airway obstruction.

Both symptoms are indicative of compromised upper airway in epiglottitis.

Choice E rationale:

Tachypnea (rapid breathing) and tachycardia (rapid heartbeat) are common physiological responses to respiratory distress.

In epiglottitis, the child may exhibit these symptoms due to the body's attempt to compensate for decreased oxygen levels.

These manifestations reflect the severity of the condition and the child's physiological response to airway compromise.