A nurse is providing education to a child and their family about the prevention of epiglottitis.
What information should the nurse include in the education?

Choice A rationale:

Epiglottitis does not cause the epiglottis to shrink and recede into the throat.

Instead, it leads to inflammation and swelling of the epiglottis, causing airway obstruction.

Choice B rationale:

The inflammation in epiglottitis does not primarily affect the vocal cords.

It specifically affects the epiglottis, a flap-like structure located at the base of the tongue, which covers the trachea during swallowing to prevent food or liquid from entering the windpipe.

Choice C rationale:

Epiglottitis leads to increased airway resistance and respiratory distress due to the swelling and obstruction of the airway.

This can result in difficulty swallowing, drooling, and a muffled voice, as seen in the client's symptoms described in the question.

Choice D rationale:

The swelling in epiglottitis is not limited to the vocal cord area.

It involves the epiglottis, which can obstruct the airway and cause respiratory distress.

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.