Epiglottitis Care Plan

Flashcards summarizing key concepts and considerations for managing epiglottitis, its symptoms, diagnostics, and nursing care.

Epiglottitis

A bacterial form of croup characterized by swollen epiglottis, leading to airway obstruction.

Symptoms of Epiglottitis

Drooling, dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), dysphonia (difficulty speaking), distressed respiratory effort, elevated fever, sore throat, anxiousness, irritability, and lethargy.

Diagnostics for Epiglottitis

Cherry red and edematous epiglottis, along with symptoms and patient history.

Doctor's orders for Epiglottitis

Neck X-ray, throat culture once airway is patent, antibiotics (ABX), fluids, and steroids.

Nursing considerations for Epiglottitis

Ensure patent airway, never leave child alone, keep nothing in the mouth that could obstruct, assess for respiratory distress, monitor axillary temperature, sit child upright, and administer antipyretics for fever.

Potential complications of Epiglottitis

Aspiration, respiratory distress, acidosis, hypoxia, and death.

Patient education for Epiglottitis

Treat upper respiratory infections adequately and in a timely manner, encourage H. Influenza vaccine, and ensure completion of prescribed antibiotics.

Priorities in managing Epiglottitis

Ensure patent airway, keep nothing in the mouth/throat, implement aspiration precautions, and keep the child calm.

Nursing diagnosis for Epiglottitis

Risk for aspiration and risk for inadequate oxygenation.

Collaboration with other disciplines for Epiglottitis

Work with respiratory therapists for ABG monitoring and mechanical ventilation, dietitian, UAP for vital signs, and speech pathologist for swallowing/speech assessment.