An 8-year old child, who has a history of asthma is seen in the office of the school nurse with coughing and wheezing. Which of the following actions should the nurse perform first?
Educate the child to avoid triggers.
Administer albuterol
Transport the child to the emergency department.
Assess the child's peak expiratory flow and compare it to the Asthma Action plan.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Educate the child to avoid triggers.
While avoiding triggers is important for long-term asthma management, it may not address the immediate symptoms of coughing and wheezing.
B. Administer albuterol
Administering albuterol is a common and effective rescue treatment for asthma symptoms like coughing and wheezing. This can provide quick relief.
C. Transport the child to the emergency department.
This is a drastic step and may not be necessary unless the child's symptoms are severe and not responding to initial interventions.
D. Assess the child's peak expiratory flow and compare it to the Asthma Action plan.
Assessing peak expiratory flow and comparing it to the Asthma Action plan is a good practice. However, it might take time, and immediate relief is also crucial.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Bronchiolitis:
Bronchiolitis is typically characterized by inflammation of the bronchioles, causing symptoms such as wheezing and respiratory distress. However, the symptom of tasting salt on the skin is not directly associated with bronchiolitis.
B. Pharyngitis:
Pharyngitis, or inflammation of the throat, may cause symptoms like a sore throat, but it is not typically associated with a salty taste on the skin.
C. Asthma:
Asthma is a chronic condition characterized by airway inflammation and bronchoconstriction. While it can cause respiratory symptoms, it is not specifically associated with a salty taste on the skin.
D. Cystic Fibrosis:
Cystic Fibrosis is a genetic disorder that affects the respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It often leads to salty-tasting skin due to increased salt content in sweat. The presence of a salty taste on the skin can be a significant indicator of cystic fibrosis.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Offer the child cherry popsicles to encourage fluid intake:
This may be a helpful intervention to soothe the child's throat and provide hydration. However, it might not be the priority action.
B. Notify the physician regarding the risk of dehydration:
This is a reasonable consideration. Dehydration can be a concern, especially if the child is not drinking fluids postoperatively. However, there might be more immediate priorities.
C. Evaluate the operative site for post-op bleeding:
This is the priority action. Postoperative bleeding is a potential complication after a tonsillectomy. Spitting up clear mucus may indicate bleeding, and a thorough assessment of the operative site is crucial. Prompt recognition and intervention are essential to prevent complications.
D. Medicate the child with Tylenol with Codeine as ordered for pain:
Pain management is important post-tonsillectomy, but in this scenario, the priority is to assess for postoperative bleeding before administering pain medication.
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