A nurse is caring for a preschooler who has epiglottitis from a streptococcal infection. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Attempt to obtain a throat culture.
Use a tongue depressor to observe the back of the throat.
Apply humidified oxygen via a mask.
Initiate airborne precautions.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Attempt to obtain a throat culture: This is contraindicated because manipulating the throat could exacerbate airway obstruction, leading to a potential respiratory emergency.
B. Use a tongue depressor to observe the back of the throat: This can provoke a spasm or cause complete airway obstruction in a child with epiglottitis and should be avoided.
C. Apply humidified oxygen via a mask: This helps to keep the airways moist and can provide some relief and improve oxygenation while minimizing the risk of airway manipulation.
D. Initiate airborne precautions: Epiglottitis primarily requires droplet precautions, not airborne. Airborne precautions are used for diseases like tuberculosis, which are spread through smaller droplets that remain suspended in the air.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Temporal: The temporal artery is not commonly used for pulse checks in infants as it can be difficult to palpate and may not provide an accurate heart rate.
B. Carotid: The carotid pulse is not recommended in infants due to the risk of compressing the airway or carotid artery, leading to decreased blood flow to the brain.
C. Apical: The apical pulse is the most reliable method for assessing heart rate in infants. It involves auscultating the heart directly at the chest, which provides the most accurate heart rate measurement.
D. Dorsalis pedis: This site is not typically used for pulse checks in infants as it can be difficult to locate and palpate accurately.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Active psychiatric disorder: The presence of an active psychiatric disorder, such as depression or anxiety, is the most significant risk factor for suicide. Mental health disorders can severely affect an adolescent's emotional and psychological well-being, increasing the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
B. Availability of firearms: While access to firearms increases the risk of successful suicide, it is a secondary risk factor compared to the presence of a psychiatric disorder, which is more directly linked to the development of suicidal ideation.
C. Family conflict: Family conflict is a risk factor for emotional distress and can contribute to suicidal thoughts, but it is less significant than having an active psychiatric disorder, which directly impacts the adolescent's mental health.
D. Homosexuality: While LGBTQ+ youth are at higher risk for suicide due to factors like discrimination and lack of support, the presence of an active psychiatric disorder remains a more critical and direct risk factor for suicide.
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