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 A
Explanation
A. Defining a sense of self: Adolescence is characterized by the search for identity and defining a sense of self. Erikson identifies this stage as "Identity vs. Role Confusion," where individuals explore and form their own identity separate from their family and childhood roles.
B. Learning to perform tasks independently: This is more typical of early childhood (Erikson's "Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt"). During this stage, children are learning basic independence, such as dressing and feeding themselves.
C. Learning to use creative energies: This task is more relevant to the preschool age group (Erikson's "Initiative vs. Guilt"), where children engage in imaginative play and begin exploring their own ideas and creativity.
D. Building a sense of trust: Building a sense of trust is the primary task in infancy (Erikson's "Trust vs. Mistrust"), where infants develop trust in their caregivers and the world around them.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Keep the client's leg in a dependent position. Keeping the leg in a dependent position can increase swelling and delay healing. The leg should be elevated to reduce swelling and promote circulation.
B. Use a hair dryer on a hot setting to dry the cast. Using a hair dryer on a hot setting can cause burns and does not effectively dry a plaster cast. Plaster casts take time to dry and should be air-dried naturally.
C. Discourage the client from ambulating: Early mobilization is encouraged to prevent complications like muscle atrophy and joint stiffness, as long as it is safe and the healthcare provider has approved it. Completely discouraging ambulation is not generally recommended unless specified by a doctor.
D. Perform a neurovascular check of the lower extremities. Neurovascular checks are essential to ensure that there is adequate blood flow and nerve function below the cast. This includes checking for pain, pallor, pulse, paresthesia, and paralysis (the 5 P’s). This helps detect complications like compartment syndrome or decreased circulation early.
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