Select all that apply.
Which of the following are nursing interventions for a child with croup?

Choice A rationale:

Continuing to monitor the child's respiratory status may not be the best action in this situation, as the child's respiratory status is worsening and they are becoming increasingly agitated.

Immediate intervention is required to alleviate the child's distress.

Choice B rationale:

Administering oxygen therapy as needed is a supportive measure in respiratory distress situations, but in the case of severe croup with worsening respiratory status and agitation, nebulized epinephrine is the treatment of choice to reduce airway inflammation and improve breathing.

Choice C rationale:

Nebulized epinephrine is the primary treatment for severe croup as it helps reduce upper airway edema, relieve stridor, and improve respiratory distress.

It acts by causing vasoconstriction, which reduces swelling in the upper airway, making breathing easier for the child.

Therefore, preparing to administer nebulized epinephrine is the most appropriate action in this situation.

Choice D rationale:

Notifying the physician immediately is essential, but immediate intervention to improve the child's respiratory distress is also necessary.

Nebulized epinephrine should be administered promptly to alleviate the child's symptoms and prevent further deterioration.

Choice A rationale:

Administering oxygen therapy is essential in cases of severe croup where the child has difficulty breathing.

Oxygen therapy helps ensure adequate oxygenation, which is crucial in managing respiratory distress.

Choice B rationale:

Positioning the child upright facilitates breathing by allowing the airways to remain open and reducing airway obstruction.

This position helps alleviate symptoms like stridor and allows the child to breathe more comfortably.

Choice C rationale:

Providing humidified air helps loosen secretions and makes it easier for the child to breathe.

Humidification can reduce airway irritation and soothe the inflamed throat, providing relief from croup symptoms.

Choice D rationale:

This choice is incorrect because encouraging the child to drink plenty of fluids is generally good advice for any illness but is not specific to croup.

While it is essential to keep the child hydrated, it is not a direct nursing intervention for managing croup symptoms.

Choice E rationale:

Monitoring the child's respiratory status closely is crucial in assessing the effectiveness of the interventions and identifying any signs of respiratory distress.

Close monitoring allows nurses to make timely decisions and take appropriate actions to maintain the child's respiratory function.