Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 73%
Simulated
A nurse is caring for a child who has epiglottitis due to an infection with Haemophilus influenzae type B. Which of the following actions should the nurse take? Select all that apply.
Correct answer
C,D,E
Rationale
The correct actions are to monitor oxygen saturation (C) due to potential airway compromise, begin droplet precautions (D) to prevent spread of infection, and initiate IV access (E) for potential emergency treatment. Inspecting the epiglottis (A) could trigger a spasm and worsen the airway obstruction. Obtaining a throat culture (B) may not be necessary in the immediate management of epiglottitis.