A nurse is caring for a 4-year-old child suspected of having epiglottitis.
The child presents with a muffled voice and is leaning forward with outstretched arms.
Which statement regarding epiglottitis is accurate?
"Epiglottitis is most commonly caused by viral infections.”..
"Epiglottitis primarily affects adolescents and adults.”..
"The child may adopt a tripod position to maximize airway patency.”..
"Epiglottitis typically results in a loud, high-pitched cry.”..
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
Epiglottitis is most commonly caused by bacterial infections, specifically Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) bacteria.
This bacterium can cause inflammation and swelling of the epiglottis, leading to airway obstruction.
Viral infections are not the primary cause of epiglottitis in children.
Choice B rationale:
Epiglottitis primarily affects children, not adolescents and adults.
The peak incidence occurs in children between the ages of 2 and 6 years.
Choice C rationale:
The child adopting a tripod position, leaning forward with outstretched arms, is a classic sign of epiglottitis.
This position helps maximize airway patency and ease breathing.
It is a protective mechanism that children instinctively assume to maintain their airway.
Choice D rationale:
Epiglottitis does not typically result in a loud, high-pitched cry.
The child with epiglottitis is usually quiet and prefers to sit still in a tripod position to maintain airway patency.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Streptococcus pneumoniae is a common bacterium associated with respiratory infections, but it is not the most common causative agent of epiglottitis in children.
Choice B rationale:
Staphylococcus aureus can cause various infections, but it is not the primary causative agent of epiglottitis in children.
Choice C rationale:
Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) is the most common causative agent of epiglottitis in children.
Hib infection can lead to inflammation and swelling of the epiglottis, causing the characteristic symptoms of epiglottitis, including difficulty swallowing and a muffled voice.
Choice D rationale:
Neisseria meningitidis is a bacterium that can cause meningitis and septicemia, but it is not the main causative agent of epiglottitis.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Allergies to foods are not directly related to epiglottitis.
While it's essential information for a general health assessment, it doesn't provide specific insights into the condition.
Choice B rationale:
Immunization history is crucial in the assessment of a child with suspected epiglottitis.
Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccination is highly effective in preventing epiglottitis caused by Hib bacteria.
Knowing the child's immunization status helps the nurse assess the likelihood of Hib infection.
Choice C rationale:
Recent travel destinations are not directly relevant to epiglottitis.
This information is more pertinent when assessing the risk of diseases like malaria or dengue fever, which are region-specific.
Choice D rationale:
Current hobbies and interests are not pertinent to the assessment of epiglottitis.
This information is important in a broader context for understanding the child's lifestyle but does not provide relevant data regarding the condition.
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