A nurse is caring for a child with epiglottitis.
Which nursing intervention should the nurse prioritize to maintain a patent airway?
Administering antibiotics intravenously as prescribed.
Providing humidified air or cool mist therapy to moisten the airway.
Administering corticosteroids intravenously as prescribed.
Administering analgesics and antipyretics as prescribed.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
Administering antibiotics intravenously is important in treating the infection, but it doesn't directly address maintaining a patent airway.
The priority in epiglottitis is to ensure an open airway to prevent respiratory distress.
Choice B rationale:
Providing humidified air or cool mist therapy helps moisten the airway, making it easier for the child to breathe.
This intervention can provide immediate relief and aid in maintaining a patent airway, which is crucial in epiglottitis.
Choice C rationale:
Administering corticosteroids intravenously can help reduce inflammation, but it might not be the primary intervention to maintain a patent airway.
Humidified air therapy directly addresses airway moisture, which is essential in epiglottitis management.
Choice D rationale:
Administering analgesics and antipyretics can address pain and fever associated with epiglottitis but does not directly contribute to maintaining a patent airway.
While these medications can improve the child's comfort, they are not the priority in this situation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
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.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
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.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.