A nurse is assisting with the care of a preschooler who has epiglottitis. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Request an x-ray of the neck.
Monitor urine for protein.
Obtain a nasopharyngeal swab
Administer fluconazole.
The Correct Answer is A
A) Request an x-ray of the neck: In cases of suspected epiglottitis, a lateral neck x-ray can help confirm the diagnosis by showing the classic "thumbprint sign," which indicates swelling of the epiglottis. This is a critical diagnostic step, but it should only be performed in a controlled setting where the child’s airway can be monitored closely. The priority is to avoid any procedures that may cause irritation or further compromise the airway.
B) Monitor urine for protein: Monitoring urine for protein is not relevant to the management of epiglottitis. This condition is related to inflammation and obstruction of the upper airway, and the focus should be on respiratory management rather than renal function.
C) Obtain a nasopharyngeal swab: While obtaining a nasopharyngeal swab can help identify the organism causing an infection (often bacterial), it is not the immediate priority in a child with suspected epiglottitis. The child’s airway is the most critical concern, and diagnostic interventions that could potentially cause further distress or obstruction (such as swabbing) should be avoided until airway management is stable.
D) Administer fluconazole: Fluconazole is an antifungal medication, and its use is not appropriate for epiglottitis. Epiglottitis is most often caused by a bacterial infection, particularly Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), which requires antibiotic therapy, not antifungals.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) "I should decrease my salt intake to 2 grams per day.":
This statement is correct. For clients with hypertension, a reduced salt intake is essential in managing blood pressure. The general recommendation is to limit sodium intake to less than 2,300 milligrams per day (about 2.3 grams), with an ideal target of 1,500 milligrams per day for individuals with hypertension or those at risk. Reducing salt intake helps lower blood pressure and prevent further complications.
B) "I can have two glasses of wine with dinner.":
This statement is incorrect. While moderate alcohol consumption may not be prohibited, it is important for individuals with hypertension to limit alcohol intake. The American Heart Association recommends no more than one drink per day for women. Two glasses of wine may exceed this limit, which could contribute to an increase in blood pressure.
C) "I should exercise for 5 minutes two times per week.":
This statement is incorrect. Exercise is an important component of managing hypertension, but 5 minutes of exercise twice a week is not sufficient. The general recommendation is for adults to engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week, spread throughout the week. More frequent and longer exercise sessions are necessary to improve cardiovascular health and manage blood pressure.
D) "I will set my blood pressure goal at 130 over 84.":
This statement is incorrect. The goal for blood pressure in individuals with mild hypertension is generally lower than 130/80 mm Hg, according to current guidelines. A blood pressure of 130/84 is still considered elevated. The target should be to maintain a blood pressure below 130/80 mm Hg to reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Weight loss: Weight loss is not a sign of fluid overload; rather, it is more indicative of dehydration or insufficient nutritional intake. Fluid overload typically leads to weight gain due to the accumulation of excess fluid in the body, so weight loss would not be a manifestation of this condition.
B) Decreased skin turgor: Decreased skin turgor is a common sign of dehydration, not fluid overload. When a person is dehydrated, the skin loses its elasticity, and it takes longer to return to its normal position after being pinched. This is the opposite of what is seen in fluid overload, where excess fluid causes the skin to appear more swollen or taut.
C) Decreased blood pressure: Decreased blood pressure is more commonly associated with hypovolemia (low fluid volume) or dehydration, rather than fluid overload. In fluid overload, blood pressure may actually rise due to the increased volume of circulating blood, not decrease.
D) Crackles heard in the lungs: Crackles, or rales, heard in the lungs are a classic sign of fluid overload, particularly when the excess fluid accumulates in the lungs (pulmonary edema). This can occur due to the heart's inability to pump effectively, leading to fluid retention in the lungs. Therefore, crackles in the lungs are a key manifestation of fluid overload.
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