Pediatric Practice Exam HESI Related

Review Pediatric Practice Exam HESI related questions and content

A 4-year-old child is admitted to the hospital with a diagnosis of epiglottitis. What is the priority nursing intervention?

  • A. Administer antibiotics
  • B. Provide humidified oxygen
  • C. Keep the child NPO
  • D. Position the child upright
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The priority nursing intervention for a 4-year-old child admitted with epiglottitis is to keep the child NPO (nothing by mouth). This is crucial to prevent further airway compromise due to the inflamed epiglottis. Administering antibiotics may be necessary but is not the priority at this moment. Providing humidified oxygen can support oxygenation but does not address the immediate risk of airway obstruction. Positioning the child upright may help with breathing but does not address the risk of aspiration. Keeping the child NPO is essential to maintain a patent airway and prevent complications associated with epiglottitis.