A nurse is caring for a toddler who is having an acute asthmatic attack with copious mucus and difficulty breathing. The child's skin is cyanotic, respirations are labored and rapid, and pulse is rapid. What nursing diagnosis would have priority for care of this child?
A) Anxiety
B) Ineffective Airway Clearance
C) Excess Fluid Volume
D) Disturbed Sensory Perception

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The priority nursing diagnosis for a toddler with an acute asthmatic attack is Ineffective Airway Clearance because the child is experiencing difficulty breathing due to copious mucus, and their skin is cyanotic, respirations are labored and rapid, and pulse is rapid. Improving airway clearance is crucial to prevent respiratory distress and hypoxia. Anxiety may be present, but it is secondary to the respiratory distress, and Disturbed Sensory Perception and Excess Fluid Volume are not relevant to the child's condition.

A Nurse Is Caring for a Toddler Who Is Having