A 4-year-old boy in respiratory distress is sitting upright in bed and drooling. His mother states that he has been complaining of a sore throat throughout the day and tonight became severely short of breath and started drooling. He is alert with adequate breathing. His skin is hot to the touch. Vital signs are pulse 132, respirations 28, and SpO₂ 90% on room air. Which one of the following is your first action in caring for this child?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The first action should be to apply supplemental oxygen to improve the child's oxygen saturation level. This will help alleviate his respiratory distress. Suctioning may also be necessary, but not before oxygen administration. An oral airway and tongue depressor should not be used unless there is evidence of airway obstruction.

A 4-Year-Old Boy in Respiratory Distress Is Sitting Upright in Bed