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.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Cimetidine: Cimetidine is an H2 receptor antagonist used to treat gastrointestinal issues like heartburn or ulcers. It does not have a known significant interaction with enoxaparin. Therefore, it is generally considered safe to use with enoxaparin, but it may require monitoring for other potential drug interactions, such as those with warfarin, not enoxaparin specifically.
B) Docusate: Docusate is a stool softener commonly used to prevent constipation. It does not interact with enoxaparin and is safe for use with the medication. It helps relieve constipation without increasing bleeding risks, which is a concern with certain other medications.
C) Calcium supplement: Calcium supplements are generally safe to use with enoxaparin. There is no significant interaction between calcium and enoxaparin, and calcium is often recommended for clients to maintain bone health, especially in those who are at risk of osteoporosis. Therefore, calcium supplements do not pose a risk when taken with enoxaparin.
D) Naproxen: Naproxen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that increases the risk of bleeding. NSAIDs, including naproxen, inhibit platelet aggregation, which can potentiate the anticoagulant effects of enoxaparin and increase the risk of bleeding. Therefore, naproxen should be avoided in clients taking enoxaparin.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) "Put small cushion under the newborn's head for support.":
This statement is incorrect. Placing a small cushion or any additional padding under a newborn’s head in a car seat is not recommended. Extra padding can interfere with the proper fit of the harness and could pose a safety risk in the event of a crash. The car seat should be used as designed, without extra padding that could affect the infant's positioning.
B) "Position the car seat at a 90° angle.":
This statement is incorrect. The car seat should be positioned at a 45-degree angle, not 90 degrees. A 45-degree angle helps prevent the infant’s head from falling forward, which can obstruct the airway and cause breathing difficulties. Positioning the seat at the correct angle ensures that the baby’s head and neck are properly supported.
C) "Place the shoulder harnesses at the level of the infant's shoulders.":
This statement is correct. For optimal safety, the shoulder harness straps should be at or just below the infant's shoulders when they are in a rear-facing car seat. This positioning helps to keep the baby secure and ensures the harness fits properly in the event of an accident. The harness should be snug and positioned correctly to provide the best protection.
D) "Keep the airbag on if the car seat is in the front seat.":
This statement is incorrect. It is recommended that infants and young children always be placed in a rear-facing car seat in the back seat of the vehicle, as this is the safest position. Airbags can be dangerous to infants if the car seat is in the front seat. If the car seat must be placed in the front seat (which is not recommended), the airbag should be turned off to prevent injury in the event of a crash.
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