Question

Describe epiglottis and what is a major nursing consideration in caring for a child with epiglottitis?

Answer 1

Answer: The epiglottis is a leaf-shaped flap of cartilage located behind the tongue, at the top of the larynx, or voice box. The main function of the epiglottis is to seal off the windpipe during eating, so that food is not accidentally inhaled.

• Nurse should monitor an EKG that stays on all the time to record child's heart's electrical activity.
• A pulse oximeter should be used to measures the amount of oxygen in child's blood. The device is a sticker or clip applied to a child's finger or toe.
• Should keep observing, prevent bacterial growth or infection.