A nurse is caring for a toddler who has acute laryngotracheobronchitis and has been placed in a cool mist tent. Which of the following findings indicates that the treatment has been effective?
Decreased stridor
Improved hydration
Decreased temperature
Barking cough
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason:
Decreased stridor: Stridor is a high-pitched, wheezing sound caused by disrupted airflow. In acute laryngotracheobronchitis (croup), stridor is a common symptom due to inflammation and narrowing of the airways. The effectiveness of treatment, such as a cool mist tent, is often indicated by a reduction in stridor, as it suggests that the airway inflammation is decreasing and the airflow is improving.
Choice B reason:
Improved hydration: While maintaining hydration is important in managing croup, it is not a direct indicator of the effectiveness of the cool mist tent treatment. Improved hydration can be achieved through various means, such as oral fluids or intravenous therapy, and does not specifically reflect the reduction of airway inflammation.
Choice C reason:
Decreased temperature: Fever can be a symptom of croup, but a decrease in temperature is not a primary indicator of the effectiveness of the cool mist tent treatment. The main goal of the cool mist tent is to reduce airway inflammation and improve breathing, rather than to control fever.
Choice D reason:
Barking cough: A barking cough is a characteristic symptom of croup. While the cool mist tent can help soothe the airways and reduce coughing, the presence or absence of a barking cough alone is not a definitive indicator of treatment effectiveness. The primary focus is on reducing airway obstruction and improving airflow.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A: Anoxia
Reason: Anoxia refers to an absence of oxygen supply to an organ or a tissue. While it is a serious condition, it is not a typical finding specifically associated with tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF). TEF primarily affects the esophagus and trachea, leading to issues with feeding and breathing, but not directly causing anoxia. Anoxia could be a secondary complication if the infant experiences severe respiratory distress, but it is not a primary symptom.
Choice B: Frothy Saliva
Reason: Frothy saliva is a common and significant finding in infants with tracheoesophageal fistula. This occurs because the abnormal connection between the trachea and esophagus allows saliva to accumulate and bubble up, leading to frothy secretions. This symptom is often one of the first signs that alert healthcare providers to the presence of TEF.
Choice C: Apnea
Reason: Apnea, or temporary cessation of breathing, is another expected finding in infants with tracheoesophageal fistula. The abnormal connection can cause aspiration of saliva or food into the lungs, leading to respiratory distress and apnea. This is a critical symptom that requires immediate medical attention to prevent severe complications.
Choice D: Sunken Abdomen
Reason: A sunken abdomen is not typically associated with tracheoesophageal fistula. In fact, infants with TEF might present with abdominal distension due to air entering the stomach through the fistula. A sunken abdomen could indicate other conditions such as dehydration or malnutrition, but it is not a characteristic finding of TEF.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Administer meperidine every 4 hours for pain. This is not recommended for children with sickle cell anemia. Meperidine is an opioid analgesic, but it is not the preferred choice for managing pain in sickle cell patients due to its potential for causing seizures and other side effects. Instead, other pain management strategies, such as acetaminophen, NSAIDs, or other opioids like morphine, are preferred.
Choice B Reason:
Apply cold compresses to painful, swollen joints. This is not recommended for children with sickle cell anemia. Cold compresses can cause vasoconstriction, which can worsen the pain and potentially trigger a sickle cell crisis. Instead, warm compresses are recommended to help alleviate pain and promote blood flow.
Choice C Reason:
Position extremities extended. This is the correct intervention. Positioning the extremities extended helps to promote blood flow and prevent vaso-occlusive episodes, which are common in sickle cell anemia. Proper positioning can help reduce pain and improve circulation.
Choice D Reason:
Discourage a high level of fluid intake. This is not recommended for children with sickle cell anemia. Adequate hydration is crucial for preventing sickle cell crises. Encouraging a high level of fluid intake helps to keep the blood less viscous and reduces the risk of vaso-occlusive episodes. Dehydration can exacerbate the condition and lead to complications.
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