Epiglottitis
Epiglottitis ( 15 Questions)
The child presents with a muffled voice and is leaning forward with outstretched arms.
Which statement regarding epiglottitis is accurate?
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.
Epiglottitis primarily affects children, not adolescents and adults. The peak incidence occurs in children between the ages of 2 and 6 years.
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.
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.
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.