Nursing 213

N213: Health Differences Across the Lifespan 3 Study Guide Nursing assessment of epiglottitis: • Head to toe general assessment o Check breath sounds and airway patency (epiglottis may appear very red andswollen)  Assess for retractions  Assess for nasal flaring o Check temperature o Assess skin color for cyanosis o Check level of consciousness and oxygen saturations • Review laboratory and radiology reports o CBC with differential to determine if viral or bacterial infection o Check electrolytes o Chest x-ray Nursing diagnosis for epiglottitis: • Ineffective airway clearance related to inflammation • Altered body temperature related to fever and infection • Activity intolerance and fatigue related to excess work to breathe and low oxygen supply • Altered nutritional status and feeding deficit in infants related to mechanical obstruction and pain • Knowledge deficit related to immunizations Nursing interventions for epiglottitis: • Check respiratory status frequently and be prepared to assist with intubation if necessary • Check temperature often • Give antipyretics for fever and pain • Administer oxygen per MD orders if necessary • Administer antibiotics per MD order • Give corticosteroids per MD order • Keep patient in comfortable upright position • Encourage rest to reduce fatigue • Encourage increased fluids and keep NPO if obstruction ispresent • Perform frequent skin assessments for color • Provide teaching on immunizations to parents Expected outcomes for epiglottitis:

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