(Select all that apply): A nurse is educating parents about risk factors for epiglottitis in children.
Which factors should the nurse include in the discussion?
Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) infection.
Trauma to the throat or neck.
Thermal injury from hot liquids.
Seasonal factors.
Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection.
Correct Answer : A,C
Choice A rationale:
Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) infection is a significant risk factor for epiglottitis in children.
Hib vaccination has significantly reduced the incidence of epiglottitis caused by this bacterium.
Choice B rationale:
Trauma to the throat or neck is not a common risk factor for epiglottitis.
The primary cause is bacterial infection, especially by Hib bacteria.
Choice C rationale:
Thermal injury from hot liquids can lead to thermal epiglottitis, a rare condition caused by the inhalation of hot steam or liquid, resulting in inflammation and swelling of the epiglottis.
Choice D rationale:
Seasonal factors are not a direct risk factor for epiglottitis.
The condition is primarily caused by bacterial infections and is not significantly influenced by seasonal changes.
Choice E rationale:
Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection is not a common cause of epiglottitis.
Bacterial infections, especially Hib, are the primary culprits in pediatric cases of epiglottitis.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Administering antibiotics intravenously is important in treating the infection, but it doesn't directly address maintaining a patent airway.
The priority in epiglottitis is to ensure an open airway to prevent respiratory distress.
Choice B rationale:
Providing humidified air or cool mist therapy helps moisten the airway, making it easier for the child to breathe.
This intervention can provide immediate relief and aid in maintaining a patent airway, which is crucial in epiglottitis.
Choice C rationale:
Administering corticosteroids intravenously can help reduce inflammation, but it might not be the primary intervention to maintain a patent airway.
Humidified air therapy directly addresses airway moisture, which is essential in epiglottitis management.
Choice D rationale:
Administering analgesics and antipyretics can address pain and fever associated with epiglottitis but does not directly contribute to maintaining a patent airway.
While these medications can improve the child's comfort, they are not the priority in this situation.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Epiglottitis is most commonly caused by bacterial infections, specifically Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) bacteria.
This bacterium can cause inflammation and swelling of the epiglottis, leading to airway obstruction.
Viral infections are not the primary cause of epiglottitis in children.
Choice B rationale:
Epiglottitis primarily affects children, not adolescents and adults.
The peak incidence occurs in children between the ages of 2 and 6 years.
Choice C rationale:
The child adopting a tripod position, leaning forward with outstretched arms, is a classic sign of epiglottitis.
This position helps maximize airway patency and ease breathing.
It is a protective mechanism that children instinctively assume to maintain their airway.
Choice D rationale:
Epiglottitis does not typically result in a loud, high-pitched cry.
The child with epiglottitis is usually quiet and prefers to sit still in a tripod position to maintain airway patency.
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