A nurse is caring for a preschool-aged child who presents with manifestations of epiglottitis. Which of the following actions is the nurse's priority to perform?
Insert an intravenous catheter
Initiate droplet precautions
Provide blow-by humidified oxygen for the child
Place resuscitation equipment at child's bedside
The Correct Answer is D
D. Place resuscitation equipment at the child's bedside. This is because epiglottitis can lead to a life- threatening emergency requiring immediate intervention, and having resuscitation equipment readily available is essential for rapid response.
A. Establishing intravenous access may be necessary for administering fluids and medications but it is not the nurse's priority action when caring for a child with suspected epiglottitis.
B. Droplet precautions help reduce the risk of transmission of respiratory pathogens to others. However, the priority is to address the child's respiratory distress and potential airway compromise.
C. Providing blow-by humidified oxygen can be beneficial in managing the child's respiratory status. However, securing the airway takes precedence over other interventions, as indicated by the guidelines for managing epiglottitis.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Ice pops are often recommended after tonsillectomy to help soothe the throat and provide hydration.
B.Although ice cream is cold and can soothe the throat, it is not the best option immediately after surgery. Dairy products, including ice cream, can sometimes lead to increased mucus production, which could irritate the throat and make swallowing more difficult during the healing process.
C. Offering hot tea is not recommended immediately following a tonsillectomy. Hot beverages, including tea, can increase the risk of bleeding and discomfort at the surgical site.
D. Cranberry juice is not an appropriate choice immediately post-tonsillectomy. While hydration is essential for recovery, acidic or tart beverages like cranberry juice may irritate the surgical site and increase discomfort.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
C. This is characteristic of Kernig's sign. Kernig's sign is elicited when the thigh is flexed at the hip and then attempts to extend the leg at the knee are met with resistance or pain due to inflammation of the meninges.
A. Petechial and purpuric rashes are associated with meningococcal meningitis, not specifically with Kernig's sign. These rashes result from bleeding into the skin and are a characteristic feature of meningococcal sepsis. However, they are not directly related to Kernig's sign.
B. This observation describes Brudzinski's sign, not Kernig's sign. Brudzinski's sign occurs when passive flexion of the neck causes involuntary flexion of the hips and knees due to meningeal irritation.
D. Muscle and joint pain can be symptoms of meningitis, but they are not specific to Kernig's sign. Kernig's sign specifically refers to resistance or pain experienced when attempting to extend the leg at the knee.
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