The nurse is caring for a child with tonsillar enlargement. What is the nurse's priority concern?
A) Low oxygen saturation
B) Daytime fatigue
C) Increased temperature
D) Antibiotic administration

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Tonsillar enlargement in children often leads to obstructive sleep apnea which can cause decreased oxygen saturation levels. Low oxygen is a priority concern which carries the highest safety risk to the child. Obstructive sleep apnea occurs in an estimated 1-3% of children, though the causative factors may differ with tonsillar enlargement being a significant component in children. Infection that leads to an increased temperature and requires antibiotic therapy is a concern, but the priority health concern is low oxygen levels. Obstructive sleep apnea can interfere with sleep patterns and lead to daytime fatigue, but the highest priority of care is low oxygen.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Child with Tonsillar Enlargement