A child has drooling, high fever, tripod positioning, and a muffled voice. What is the nurse’s priority action?

Question

Accepted Answer

B. Keep the child calm and prepare for airway management — This presentation suggests epiglottitis and imminent airway obstruction. Do not visualize the throat; keep the child calm and prepare for emergent airway management with the team.

Answer

A. Examine the throat with a tongue depressor

Answer

C. Offer a popsicle to soothe the throat

Answer

D. Send the child to x-ray without supervision